CARICOM says it is working to re-introduce the single security check for direct transit passengers on multi-stop intra-community flights.
This was announced last Wednesday by Secretary General Irwin LaRocque during the opening of the now concluded International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Air Transportation meeting at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Liliendaal.
The Caribbean Community had implemented a single security check initiative during the Region’s hosting of the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2007 in Guyana and other parts of the Caribbean. However, without the arrangement in place, travellers making transit stops are required to go through security checks until reaching their final destination.
LaRocque stated that the proposed initiative would be welcomed by regional travellers as it would enhance the travel experience in the region and minimize the inconvenience.
“There is no doubt that safe and efficient and the cost effective transportation within this region is of critical importance to our regional integration process. Given the geographic spread of our member states, such a transportation system is essential to fulfill the goal of free movement of people and goods. It is equally important in fostering the spirit of community among our people; it would also facilitate the growth of tourism that is so crucial to the economies of our member states,” the Sectary General said.
He went on to say that a significant step in this regard was made last February when CARICOM Heads of Government approved the Multi Air Services Agreement (MASA), which essentially expands the scope for airlines owned by CARICOM nationals to go to new markets within the community; the absence of restrictions on routes, capacity of traffic rights among the participants and the facilitation of an increase in interregional travel and to provide more cargo options for exporters and importers.
Added to this, is the already established Caribbean Aviation Safety and Security Oversight System (CASSOS) which was launched in 2009 and is to facilitate the growth and development of aviation in the region through training, resource sharing and harmonization of policies and procedures among other areas.
“It is under the auspices of CASSOS that work will commence on the development of a regional policy which will enhance the travel experience in the region and minimize the inconvenience. We are seeking to reintroduce the single security check for direct transit passengers on multistep inter community flights; this will no doubt be a welcomed initiative for regional travelers,” the Secretary General said.
Further, he explained that the actions of CARICOM are not limited to domestic situations as a consultancy has been launched to formulate a regional airlift policy and strategy, as part of efforts to enhance its global transportation links for the benefit of its regional tourism product.
“Technical reviews and analytical work along with stakeholder consultation with member states are being undertaken in this regard. The objective of this initiative is to harmonize aviation policies in the community and support the expansion of the tourism sector as a sustainable growth of the economies of our member states,” LaRocque added.
