TSA cargo aims meet scepticism

Cargo security has previously been regarded as the weakest link in aviation security, but directives are now in place to ensure that cargo, like baggage, is properly and effectively screened.

In March 2009, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said that it was confident that at least 50 per cent of air cargo transported on passenger aircraft originated in the US was being screened for explosives. This figure is in line with the requirement, mandated by Congress, to screen 50 per cent of all cargo on passenger aircraft by 3 February 2009. Each air carrier is required to submit data monthly to TSA on the amount of cargo it has screened.

In October 2008, the TSA mandated screening of all cargo on narrow-body aircraft. These aircraft make up more than 95 per cent of all US flights on which more than 85 per cent of all US passengers travel each day.

More than 200 facilities have been certified by the TSA as participants in the Certified Cargo Screening Program (CCSP) and hundreds more applicants are awaiting certification. When fully implemented, this public/private initiative will provide the ability to expand screening beyond airline cargo warehouses to several points, including manufacturing facilities, consolidation points, distribution centers and independent cargo screening facilities.

Certified CCSP facilities must successfully apply, participate and adhere to strict security standards, including physical access controls, personnel security and screening of prospective employees and contractors to TSA standards. A secure chain of custody must also be established from the screening facility to the side of the aircraft.