In achieving this lofty goal, we ask that any review consider the vital role of the airport operators. They are the only ones who can connect all the dots through recognition of industry/business interdependencies and associated impacts of security-related interruptions.
Unlike particular agencies whose mandates are necessarily limited, it is only the airport operators who are able to see the entire airport as a system. As a result, we are able to identify and address the various challenges of implementing a fully integrated and holistic security system, which starts at the perimeter of the airport and goes through to the aircraft seat.
The events of December 25 placed a tremendous strain on the ability of the air transportation system to function. The implementation of measures in one area resulted in unintended consequences in another, simply because the airport operator was not able to coordinate the various activities. It is also critical that any review recognize the very real distinctions between the size and roles of the various airports in Canada. It is essential that airports be engaged, whether they are regional airports or gateway airports. The question is one of “scalability” and taking advantage of the opportunities that exist in each type of airport. Smaller airports simply do not have the complexities of the larger ones, but their smaller, more communal character can serve to enhance security in ways that are not possible at gateway airports such as Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver.
Systems should be flexible enough to deliver security in a completely different manner, depending on a number of factors, including available resources and levels of risk. We recognize that it will not be easy, but we feel that the issue of “scalability” should be viewed as an opportunity, not a challenge.
If there is one impression that we would want to leave with the committee today, it is that airports recognize the importance of airport security, which is a top priority at all airports across the country. As well, as partners in the aviation industry, we must work together to create an integrated system that anticipates threats of the future and offer a customer experience that will ensure that people choose to fly.
Should there be an incident similar to the event of December 25 at one of our airports, we understand that the impact could be immediate and devastating. Clearly, we are motivated to make sure that such an event never happens again. Again, I stress on behalf of the Canadian Airports Council that the safety and security of our passengers and air carriers is paramount. We are committed to working with all stakeholders, including the federal government and our various security agencies, to ensure that the safety and security of Canada's aviation system is world-class.