Fifth report on the implementation of Regulation (EC) 2320/2002 establishing common rules in the field civil aviation security.

Abstract

2009 was a time of consolidation in the EU world of aviation security. Throughout the year, the Commission worked steadily with Member States and the industry to finalise the details of the new package of implementing legislation intended to complement Regulation (EC) 300/20081. The scientific community and manufacturers focussed on developing technologies which would allow passengers to carry liquids on to aircraft. The European Parliament continued its careful consideration of the issues surrounding the possible use of security scanners at European airports. On the wider stage, regular discussions were held with international organisations to find global solutions to common problems. It was not until the final days of the year, with the incident on Northwest Airlines flight 253 from Amsterdam Schiphol to Detroit, that attention was once again, and forcibly, directed towards a new threat. This was yet another reminder that extremist groups continue to regard civil aviation as an attractive target and will always seek ways to avoid detection by the current screening techniques. It again served – if this were necessary - to underline the vital nature of the work being done by the Commission and its partners towards protecting travellers and the European aviation industry as a whole.