Canada to tighten air cargo security with screening measures

CANADA's federal government plans to spend C$95 million (US$87.8 million) over the next five years to bolster air cargo security amid criticism that cargo transported in the bellyhold of passenger aircraft undergoes little scrutiny.

According to a government briefing note, the Transport Ministry intends to implement an "Air Cargo Security Programme" that includes new screening for cargo shipments.

"The Air Cargo Security Programme will ensure that Canada's aviation system meets the highest standards in the world by, for example, ensuring all cargo is screened using the highest standards and most effective technologies," said the Toronto Star, citing an excerpt from the note.

The new measures will call for screening of cargo throughout the supply chain, requiring shippers and air carriers to ensure the safety of their shipments.

The measures are likely to include x-ray screening, swabs to pick up trace explosives and physical searches to ascertain the safety of cargo that will be conducted in factories, freight warehouses and airline facilities.

The measures will be introduced at the country's seven busiest airports and first target cargo to be transported on overseas, then flights to the United States. Domestic cargo will be the last to be subjected to the new screening, said the report citing sources familiar with the note.

"The attempted terrorist attack on a Detroit-bound flight and the recent false alarm over the Cathay Pacific flight in Vancouver demonstrated that we must continue to be vigilant to keep air travel safe and secure in Canada," the note said.

The move coincides with a new campaign launched by airports in Canada, called "Cargo Canada" to promote themselves to air carrier cargo hubs with fast access to North American hubs.

(Source:www.schednet.com)