ACI Europe calls for global security standards

Tina Milton

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The inability for transfer passengers flying into Europe to take liquid duty-free items purchased outside the EU has prompted a call for a global security standard from ACI Europe

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe director general Olivier Jankovec has called for new global security standards, following the implementation of new rules which prevent transfer passengers flying into the EU from taking liquid duty-free items purchased outside the region. The plea comes in the wake of new carry-on security rules for liquids introduced yesterday.

Jankovec said: “The inability for transfer passengers flying into Europe to take liquid duty-free items purchased outside the EU calls for a global security standard. Aviation is international by its very nature and security measures must be harmonised accordingly.”

ACI Europe reported that disruption was “kept to a minimum at airports across Europe” following the implementation of the new rules for liquids. Initial reports were provided by Amsterdam Schiphol, Brussels International, Copenhagen, Dublin, Frankfurt, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Madrid Barajas, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Paris Orly airports. Feedback indicated a limited impact on security queuing times and a minimal impact on airline departures. Passengers originating from non-EU countries and transferring to an onward destination are feeling the greatest impact.

The association attributed the smooth implementation of the rules to the combined communication efforts of airports and airlines and the large numbers of additional staff at screening points, check-in and pre-screening points to provide support.

Jankovec commented: “I am very pleased that the impact has so far been kept to a minimum. Indeed, within a very small timeframe, Europe’s airports have made huge efforts to prepare for the implementation of the new security requirements. The implementation of these measures has significant operational and financial consequences for airports and retailers alike. We are now reaching a critical point in terms of the sustainability of the overall EU security framework.”

For a full report on the new measures see DFNI November 15.