AIRLINES WELCOME AIRBUS SECURITY TASK FORCE PROPOSALS

Airbus initiated a series of meetings in the U.S.A and Europe on 9th and 11th October to review improvements of aircraft security. These meetings involved representatives from airline associations, some 60 airlines, five airworthiness authorities, and other manufacturers. Airlines and the authorities reacted very positively to Airbus’ proposals for immediate, medium and longer term actions to reinforce security on Airbus airliners.

Airbus’ proposal for the reinforcement of cockpit doors on single-aisle Airbus aircraft has already been reviewed and approved by the DGAC and the European JAA. It is currently being reviewed by other authorities. Airbus has since issued detailed design plans for the cockpit door modification, and the necessary data and information have been made available free of charge to Airbus operators. Similar modifications are being developed for other Airbus aircraft and will be made available shortly.

With safety, as ever, its prime concern, Airbus set up its security task force after the tragic events of 11th September. The task force has been working diligently with customers and actively contributing to industry and government task forces in the USA. It has been examining ways to minimize risks related to the threat of terrorism in air transport and has been identifying and investigating solutions which could be implemented in the very short term, as well as medium and longer term measures.

Besides the reinforcement of cockpit doors, other security enhancements were discussed with the airlines. They included improved means of communication between cockpit and cabin, and between the aircraft and ground. The proposals submitted by Airbus were extremely well received. Careful investigation of all measures are underway to ensure their compliance with overall safety and certification requirements.

In addition to the two meetings held last week, Airbus is also holding its annual Flight Safety Conference this week, at which these issues will be further discussed with around a hundred airline and industry representatives.