Trade group the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has cautioned against expanding an in-cabin electronics ban which offers ‘no tangible public security benefits.’
AAPA says the ‘over-reaction’ by governments towards personal electronic devices including laptops and tablets only adds to the already ‘onerous and inconsistent security screening measures prior to boarding a flight.’
The association has called for a common sense approach and full cooperation with the industry, security services and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) before expamding any ban.
"AAPA understands the need to maintain the highest levels of security in air transportation, and airlines are committed to working closely with government security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that air travel remains safe, secure and convenient. Despite recent events, public confidence in the safety and security of air travel remains high. It would be a tragedy if that confidence were to be undermined by ill-judged reactionary measures being misguidedly imposed by those entrusted with maintaining public safety," said AAPA director general Andrew Herdman.
"Good security is all about comprehensive threat assessment and balanced risk management, not the elimination of every conceivable risk. Aviation security is a collective global responsibility and requires effective consultation to ensure that security measures are practical, cost effective and sustainable whilst minimising the impact on the wider traveling public."
"We urge governments, in conjunction with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), to work together more closely with industry, and strengthen multilateral cooperation," Herdman added.
