ACSA Seeks Five Cent Screening Fee

(Aircargo Asia)

The USA-based Air Cargo Security Alliance (ACSA), comprising 300 indirect air carriers, direct shippers and customs brokers, has petitioned Janet Napolitano, head of the US Department of Homeland Security, to implement a federal cargo screening program paid for by a US$0.05 cent per pound fee on all shipments.

According to Michael Whately of ACSA, the TSA's Certified Cargo Screening Program (CCSP) as it stands will "force most small to mid-size forwarders and indirect air carriers (IAC) to face insurmountable costs and logistical hurdles before they even enter the marketplace. This will result in reduced competition and just-in-time shipping options for businesses will be severely limited. For many, the 100% screening mandate without a federal screening program operating at all American airports makes economic viability impossible."

The trade association now wants the TSA to establish and operate federal cargo screening centres at major U.S. airports and pay for it through a uniform fee.

With the deadline for 100% screening 95 days away, ACSA says "only a fraction of the more than 4,000 registered IAC and shippers have joined the CCSP to date".