Traveller-paying security urged

Press, 19 April 1986, Page 10

Traveller-paying security urged

NZPA-AP Washington Airlines are imposing new security measures to combat terrorism abroad, including around-the-clock guards at parked aircraft, but they say travellers should help pay for the expensive precautions.

Pan American World Airways said it planned to ask the United States Government to approve a SUSS ($9.1) a passenger surcharge to defray added security expenses, and other airlines are likely to follow suit

The head of the airline pilots’ union called yesterday for better training and pay for airport security workers. Airlines hire security workers who screen passengers and bags at airports. Any pay increase or expansion of the workforce probably would be passed on to travellers.

Carriers such as Pan Am and Trans World Airlines, which depend heavily on Atlantic business, are trying to calm fears about security. Travel agents already are reporting many people are cancelling trips to Europe because of worries about terrorism, sparked largely by the continuing American confrontation with Libya.

“We are going to have to show the public this year that International travel is both rewarding and safe,” said Martin Shugrue, vice-chairman and chief operating officer of Pan Am.

The Federal Aviation Administration earlier this week directed American airlines flying abroad to impose new security procedures, but declined to name the specific measures imposed.