Overview
The EU’s Stakeholder Advisory Group for Aviation Security (SAGAS) is a formally constituted consultation body that meets approximately 8 times a year. Membership consists of the European Commission (DG-MOVE), Member state security representatives and Industry representatives.
Background Information Following the attacks of 911, the EU started to produce legislation to harmonise security procedures for all member states and those that have signed bi-lateral agreements to implement the same ‘base line’ standards (Norway, Switzerland and Iceland).
Member states are still however responsible for the assessment of risk and threat to their own state and may impose ‘more stringent measures’ on airlines and at airports registered or operating into their state.
ERA’s Current Position
The events of 9/11 led to a huge increase in the level and therefore cost of security, both on the ground and in-flight. Consequently, the financing of new measures is on the policy agenda of the European Union and continues to be an area of considerable interest to ERA members. The industry maintains a world-wide consensus that, as security threats are against States rather than the industry, the provision and cost of security measures should be borne largely by States rather than through aviation taxes and passenger fees. Citizens legitimately expect States to ensure that security is maintained by appropriate measures and technology
Update
Restrictions to the carriage of Liquids, Aerosols and Gels (LAGs) in cabin baggage will begin a phased withdrawal as technology is introduced.
Initial restrictions on transfer Duty Free goods, water, medicines and baby food will be progressively removed from January 2014.
Useful links
http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air/security/security_en.htm
http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/transport/air_transport/tr0028_en.htm
Papers
All associated papers are available by clicking on the Downloads button on this page.
Contacts
For further assistance please contact nick.mower@eraa.org