Do Pilots go through Security Checks?
Omar Kaddouha
In the 1960s, airport security checks were overlooked because there were no dangers like today. Fast forward to 2021, airport security checks are essential and are being implemented and intensified across all countries.
All airport personnel, including pilots and air hostesses, go through rigorous security checks as they go about their duties. It has been identified that airports are the main entry points of illegal goods, counterfeit products, and even wanted fugitives. Therefore, the importance of a thorough security check goes without saying.
Reasons why airport security checks are crucial:
Protection against terrorists
Known terrorists have carried out severe attacks on foreign countries after entering the airport. Additionally, hijackings of different airplanes in the 1970s were due to reckless security checks.
That neglect led to the loss of many lives, and it was a wake-up call to the aviation industry.
It was not until 2001 that screening systems and monitoring procedures were invented and implemented.
Over the years, more security protocols were invented as technology evolved.
Reduce smuggling
The airport industry experienced a surge in illegal transportation of goods before the implementation of harsh security measures. Many merchants wanted to avoid taxation of these goods and other charges that came along.
Additionally, law offenders smuggled exotic animals, stolen antiques, and other significant value items into countries through airways.
However, these cases have reduced drastically due to stringent airport security checks.
Protection of passengers while in the airport
Mass shooting incidences were rampant in many countries. While most shooters targeted schools and churches, others went to airports. Therefore, to curb that problem, intense security checks were rolled out across many airports.
Additionally, some governments have a dedicated military wing to guard all the country’s airports. For instance, India has the Central Industrial Security Force to defend all airport operations.
Computer hacking
Security checks involve physical examinations, but it also consists of the cyberspace. Hackers are developing new methods of compromising airport servers and database systems. Additionally, the aviation industry is becoming overly reliant on technology for its day-to-day operations.
Thus, many airports invest heavily in cyber security to prevent data breaches.
Fight narcotics
Many times, travellers have been caught in possession of drugs and other illegal substances. Drug trafficking is a menace that has been troubling many airport officials globally. Famous drug lords like Pablo Escobar made a large fortune through airways.
However, modern airport security systems detect illegal substances, and the culprits are apprehended to face justice.
Pilots go through security checks alongside other colleagues. However, in some larger airlines, they have a separate security point different from the passenger side. In airports, matters of security are not taken lightly.
Global Flight Safety Advocate
Omar Kaddouha is the Lebanese Director of Flight Safety. He is responsible for certifying airlines, airports, and all other third parties who play a part in the aviation sector.
He chaired the Turkish Middle East Aviation Safety Group in 2009, which called for the implementation of strict airport security checks and the safety of all passengers.
Additionally, he led a 2019 conference with agendas about airport security and how to mitigate the emerging dangers. Top on the agenda list was how to create a globally harmonized traffic management system while balancing safety and security in the airlines. The second was how to protect the airports with sensors and how to roll out counter-drone technology.
Lastly, Dr Omar Kaddouha is a global advocate for airport security. Therefore, all airline security stakeholders should pay attention and coordinate with their office for optimal passenger experience during a flight.
