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TSA clears cargo-screening deadline for takeoff in December
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05/17/12 02:52 PM ET
The Transportation Security Administration said Thursday that it would require commercial airlines to screen all cargo packages that are transported on their flights to the United States by December.
TSA had planned to implement the requirement by the end of last year, but the agency postponed the deadline amid concerns about the cost and time required to screen all packages.
The agency said Thursday that it was ready to move ahead with the requirement, announcing it would take effect Dec. 3.
"Harmonizing security efforts with our international and industry partners is a vital step in securing the global supply chain," TSA Administrator John Pistole said in a statement. "By making greater use of intelligence, TSA can strengthen screening processes and ensure the screening of all cargo shipments without impeding the flow of commerce."
The requirement that cargo loads be completely screened was one of the recommendations from 9/11 Commission that was tasked with looking at vulnerabilities following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks using hijacked airplanes. The requirement has been in the federal rulemaking process since 2009.
TSA had planned to implement the requirement by the end of last year, but the agency postponed the deadline amid concerns about the cost and time required to screen all packages.
The agency said Thursday that it was ready to move ahead with the requirement, announcing it would take effect Dec. 3.
The requirement that cargo loads be completely screened was one of the recommendations from 9/11 Commission that was tasked with looking at vulnerabilities following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks using hijacked airplanes. The requirement has been in the federal rulemaking process since 2009.
