Passage of No-Hassle Flying Act lauded

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines, today commended the House of Representatives for passing S. 3542, the “No-Hassle Flying Act of 2012”, which streamlines baggage security measures for international flights arriving from select airports in Canada, the Caribbean and Ireland that have U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) preclearance facilities. The bill now heads to the White House where it awaits the President’s signature.

The bill, sponsored by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Roy Blunt (R-MO), gives the Transportation Security Administration discretion to determine whether additional screening of bags already screened at CBP preclearance airports is necessary. Currently, all baggage entering the United States must be re-screened regardless of where it originated, which creates additional work and hassle for customers, without providing meaningful additional security.

“This is a smart, efficient way to streamline travel, boost tourism and lower costs while maintaining the highest security standards,” said A4A President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio. “Safe and reliable baggage screening is a key component in ensuring aviation safety around the world, and our members fully support efforts to implement robust, reliable and intelligent screening systems that enhance security and make travel more convenient for customers at the same time. We appreciate the leadership that Congress has shown in promoting this common-sense, risk-based screening approach.”