By Ron Thaniel
September 27, 2004

The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee approved the Aviation Security Advancement Act (S 2393) September 22 sponsored by committee Chairman John McCain (AZ) and Subcommittee on Aviation of Commerce, Science and Transportation Ranking Member John D. Rockefeller (WV).

The Aviation Security Advancement Act directs the Secretary to establish a schedule for replacing trace-detection equipment used for in-line baggage screening with explosive detection system equipment at airports and authorizes appropriations for next generation explosive detection systems as well as the installation of portal detection systems at airports to detect biological, radiological, and explosive materials.

The Department of Homeland Secretary (DHS), in consultation with the Department of Transportation (DOT), is directed to establish a pilot program at not more than 10 commercial service airports to evaluate the use of portal detection systems.

S. 2393 also directs DHS to develop for all U.S. commercial airports standards for determining aviation security staffing standards necessary to provide necessary levels of aviation security.

The bill authorizes appropriations for improving aviation security related to the transportation of cargo on both passenger aircraft and all-cargo aircraft. DHS is to develop a plan to enhance air cargo security at airports for commercial passenger and cargo aircraft, including supply chain security and establishes a grant program to develop, test, purchase, and deploy next-generation air cargo security technology.

As U.S.MAYOR heads to press, the schedule is unclear as to the timing for consideration before the full Senate.