Aviation Security The Fight Against Terrorism

Abstract

It is proposed that there are strong humanitarian, political and economic reasons for mobilising the political will and resources to enhance international aviation security. The major weaknesses in current security policy, procedures, coordination, technology and management are examined and possible means of reducing these vulnerabilities identified. Strong national policies to deal with aviation security are an important first step, but governments, the aviation industry and passengers will need to join forces to internationalise an effective response. To be effective, the international aviation security regime requires the necessary powers and resources to monitor, inspect and enforce proper security standards worldwide. It needs concerted intelligence, police and judicial action. It requires firm collective measures to deter, prevent and penalise the activities of rogue states which sponsor, support or shelter aviation terrorists. Finally, means must be devised to assist the poorer countries to obtain the expertise and bilateral and multilateral assistance programmes to enable them to participate fully in the global security regime, otherwise terrorist organisations will exploit the weakest links.