IATA urges heightened measures on passenger safety

MANILA, Philippines - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called for deeper partnership among different governments to heighten passenger security measures and improve facilitation processes.

IATA director general and chief executive officer Tony Tyler said passenger security is a government responsibility through regulation and information that cannot be obtained from other sources.

“Governments have infinitely more resources than airlines do. We rely on governments as partners to provide the guidance and information to help manage risks and keep our passengers, crew and cargo secure,” he said during the Aviation Security (AVSEC) Conference, a joint effort of Airports Council International (ACI), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and IATA.

IATA encouraged governments to provide authoritative, accurate, consistent and unequivocal information about security threats in order for airlines to manage the risks of flight operations effectively.

Addressing terrorism cases in several countries such as in Syria, Tyler noted that governments and the aviation industry must identify common goals and objectives that would strengthen security environment and provide more efficient border clearance services to the increasing travelling public.

This year, airlines are seen to move 3.5 billion passengers and over 50 million tons of cargo.  In much less than two decades the numbers are expected to more than double.

“We all want the same outcomes: secure air transport and a convenient passenger experience. The only way to ensure that is in a working partnership of industry and government. There is no time to lose in moving ahead. The challenge grows with every new traveler,” he added.

Furthermore, Tyler emphasized the importance of aviation to the global economy as it supports around 58 million jobs worldwide, contributes at least $2.2 trillion in economic activities, and delivers over a third of world trade.

“Aviation spreads prosperity. We help our planet to know and understand itself. This is done by connecting people and cultures in far flung places for study, exploration, business and simply continuing human relationships,” he said.