Brace for the New Threat to Air Passenger Safety (GS Paper 3, Internal Security)
Context
- The recent incidents in West Asia, involving exploding pagers and walkie-talkies, have raised serious concerns about the safety of air travel.
- As tensions escalate, particularly with the Israeli military operations in the region, there is a growing apprehension that these developments could adversely affect innocent air travelers worldwide.
- The past decade has seen aviation security measures evolve significantly due to various threats, but the latest risks demand even more scrutiny, particularly concerning electronic devices carried on flights.
Introduction
- In the wake of unsettling events, the question of air safety has come to the forefront.
- The previously grounded flights during the COVID-19 pandemic spotlighted vulnerabilities in aviation, originally attributed to geopolitical tensions with countries like China.
- Now, the implications of Israel’s aggressive actions could bring new threats to the aviation sector, endangering countless passengers.
The VVIP Loophole in India
Historical Background
- Airport security checks have roots tracing back to the hijackings of the 1970s and 1980s, which peaked with the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
- Following this, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) established stringent safety standards to prevent similar attacks, but implementation has varied globally.
Exemptions in India
- While many countries have limited exemptions for VVIPs from security checks, India has a flawed system.
- Initially, in 1989, only a few categories of people were exempt from security checks, but this has expanded to include individuals with dubious backgrounds due to political influences.
- This exemption poses a considerable risk, particularly with allegations of government surveillance via tools like Pegasus spyware, which can compromise personal devices and data.
Basic Air Safety Protocols
Importance of Compliance
- Passengers are typically required to switch mobile devices to flight mode before takeoff.
- This measure aims to prevent any electronic interference that could jeopardize flight safety.
- Yet, adherence to this protocol is often lax, especially in India, where many passengers disregard the rule without consequence.
Historical Context
- The requirement to turn off mobile devices arose after incidents where incoming signals reportedly interfered with aircraft systems, leading to catastrophic outcomes.
- Although modern aircraft are equipped with advanced shielding technologies, safety regulations remain in place as a precautionary measure.
The Issue of Decompression
Global Threats
- The new threat from West Asia has potential ramifications for global aviation.
- Explosive devices, even those small enough to fit into a pocket, could initiate cabin fires or damage critical aircraft structures, leading to rapid decompression.
- Such incidents could require immediate deployment of oxygen masks for passengers, heightening the risks associated with onboard safety.
Catastrophic Scenarios
- In the event of a fire during decompression, passengers face a dire situation.
- With limited time to respond, they must choose between using oxygen masks to survive or succumbing to the flames.
- This catch-22 situation underlines the urgent need for heightened awareness and proactive measures.
The Need for Rethinking Safety Protocols
Escalating Risks
- Ignoring the geopolitical dynamics and their implications for air travel only invites greater risks.
- With potential threats arising from advanced electronic devices, airlines may need to reconsider current policies, such as banning Wi-Fi onboard to prevent the triggering of malicious devices.
Terrorism Concerns
- The difficulty in screening for determined terrorists, as evidenced by the 9/11 attacks, necessitates stringent measures.
- ICAO mandates that passengers carry their own hand baggage, yet in India, VVIPs often bypass this rule, creating openings for security breaches.
Way Forward: Implementing a Safety Net
Enhanced Security Measures
- In light of recent events, increased scrutiny and enhanced security protocols are essential.
- For instance, after incidents in Lebanon, measures have already been taken to ban specific electronic devices from flights originating in Beirut.
Government Action
- The Indian government should consider implementing bans on Wi-Fi during flights and installing signal shields at airport terminals.
- Past practices during the rollout of 5G technologies show that safety precautions can be effectively integrated into aviation regulations.
Conclusion
- As the aviation sector grapples with evolving threats from electronic devices, it is crucial for the Indian government to take proactive steps to ensure passenger safety.
- By enhancing security measures, restricting device usage, and addressing the loopholes associated with VVIP privileges, India can fortify its aviation safety protocols.
- The stakes are high, and it is imperative to act decisively to protect air travelers from emerging threats.
