TNT enhances security after bomb-scares
TNT Express is taking a series of additional security measures against the threat of bomb-parcels. The industry was put on alert last month after several explosive packages destined for Chicago were discovered in the UK, Dubai and the US. The packages originated from Yemen.
The following week, the Greek government put in place a 48-hour international airmail embargo after packages containing explosives – reportedly carried by UPS and TNT – were sent to targets across Greece and Europe. Targets included German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, and French President Nicolas Sarkozy.
The terrorist plots were no thought to be linked.
Now TNT has reinforced air and ground security controls, including the screening of consignments, in all countries where it operates.
Marie-Christine Lombard, group managing director Express, said: “TNT Express is committed to strengthening transportation security worldwide. Together with security officials, customers and the industry, we are determined to enforce all reasonable measures to allow the safe transport of world trade.”
The reinforcement covers TNT’s own operations, but also that of its associates, subcontractors, and partner airlines involved in the transportation of TNT shipments.
A TNT spokesman said: “TNT already implements a global security standard that meets or exceeds local security standards. TNT Express is nonetheless completing a risk assessment to identify areas where security could be further enhanced. This includes the evaluation of all airports where TNT operates or plans to operate in the near future.
“TNT routinely cooperates with national and international authorities responsible for transportation security worldwide. In the coming weeks, TNT Express will intensify dialogue with customers and security officials to raise existing security standards. TNT will of course review and align with any developing regulations.”
TNT is currently subject to several international regulations, including ICAO Annex 17, and also takes account of other international recommendations, such as ECAC Doc 30, ICAO Security recommendations, and industry-driven best practices, like IATA IOSA program and TAPA certification.
