Screening Air Cargo will Create Backlog

(ITW – Alex Lennane)

Carriers may not be able to cope after August deadline for 100% screening of US-bound cargo

Delays are likely to affect the air freight industry with the introduction in August of 100% screening of cargo carried on passenger aircraft to and from the U.S., carriers have warned. Unless cargo is pre-screened under the U.S.’s Certified Cargo Screening Programme (CCSP), airlines may be unable to cope with initial volumes.

Dave Brooks, president and CEO of American Airlines Cargo, said: “It is simply not possible for carriers to screen all cargo, which would seriously compromise the value proposition of air freight.

“We may have to delay shipments that are not screened, and some customers with unscreened freight who haven’t engaged with us may be inconvenienced.”

While the airlines have been working hard to ensure customers understand the importance of pre-screening under the CCSP, carriers are ultimately responsible for the process. But the amount of cargo that will arrive at airports unscreened is still unknown.

“It’s hard to say what proportion of cargo will be pre-screened,” admitted Dwayne Baird, from the Office of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs at the US Transportation Security Administration. “But it’s the airlines’ primary responsibility, and I can’t speculate.”