CAA successfully hosts the second security screening syposium

NEWS RELEASE

TUESDAY, 22 FEBRUARY 2005

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) recently hosted an international symposium on aviation security which was held in Rustenburg, North West Province, from 16 -18 February 2005.

The purpose of this symposium, whose theme was “Working together, finding best practices”, was to bring together key decision makers from around the globe to share ideas and best practices on issues pertaining to aviation security. The focus of the symposium, in particular, was on security screening methods.

Mr Mongezi India, Acting CEO of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Co-chair of the symposium, said that he was pleased that the symposium turned out to be a success.

The first symposium was held in Canada last year, and South Africa was requested to be the host for the second one.

The symposium involved ten countries from North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia who gathered together to discuss major issues facing aviation security screening organizations. Co-chair of the Symposium, Mr. Jacques Duchesneau, CEO and President of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority said, “I believe that we have made significant progress in advancing the knowledge of the participating countries in areas relating to the training of security screening personnel, sharing and exchange of information on best practices for security screening and the review of past, present and future screening methods”.

Mr Joerg Mendel, Director, Aviation Security from the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Housing from Germany, who attended both symposiums, said, “I want to congratulate South Africa, and the South African Civil Aviation Authority for taking the leadership in co-hosting this event. I really believe that countries must share their experiences and expertise in order to advance security screening. This was a world class event!”

Mr India indicated that South Africa has been recognized as a major contributor to the advancement of aviation security. He said the CAA was very pleased to have hosted this event as part of South Africa’s commitment towards international aviation security.

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For More Information Contact:

Ms Poppy Mhlungu

Acting General Manager: Aviation Security Department: CAA

Tel: (011) 545 1080

Cell: 0836277366

Issued by:

Moses Seate

Communications

Tel: (011) 545 1156

Cell: 082 857 9494.