Final rule makes screening mandate a permanent regulation according to 9/11 Act
A mandate requiring 100 percent screening of outbound air cargo freight from the US has been finalized by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
This “Final Rule” for the “Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007” (9/11 Act) makes the air cargo screening mandate a permanent regulation, according to the processes outlined in the 9/11 Act.
The original mandate, put into place in September of 2009 as an “Interim Final Rule” (IFR), required 100 percent screening of cargo transported on domestic and international passenger flights departing US airports, effective August 1, 2010.
Jim Fotenos of the TSA Office of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs, said: “Air carriers are responsible for screening to TSA standards before cargo is loaded their aircraft.
“TSA has 500 inspectors and over 100 canine teams throughout the country dedicated to air cargo. The inspectors regularly, continually and rigorously audit cargo facilities to ensure compliance with screening regulations.”
The IFR created the Certified Cargo Screening Program (CCSP), a voluntary program allowing cargo to be screened away from the airport. Air cargo companies can apply to become a Certified Cargo Screening Facility (CCSF), and approximately 1,250 screening facilities are already certified.
“We understood that air carriers didn’t have the ability or physical space to screen 100 percent of cargo onsite,” Fotenos said. “Approximately 56 percent of air cargo on passenger aircraft is screened through CCSP prior to arrival at the airport, and the program continues to work well, meeting our overall expectations.”
“TSA continues to collaborate with our international and industry partners to work towards screening 100 percent of international inbound cargo on passenger planes,” he added.
“We have asked industry for feedback on a potential December 31, 2011 date for screening all international inbound cargo on passenger jets. TSA is carefully reviewing and considering comments from the industry before determining when the 100% mark will be required.”
Pete Goldin | Mon, 29 Aug 2011, IFW News