New Threats are Emerging in Aviation Safety

Source: The post new threats are emerging in Aviation Safety has been created, based on the article “Brace for the new threat to air passenger safety” published in “The Hindu” on 23rd September is 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- Security challenges and their management

Context: The article discusses new aviation safety risks from electronic devices like pagers and walkie-talkies, potentially triggered by external signals, citing incidents in West Asia. It highlights India’s security vulnerabilities and urges stronger safety measures to prevent future threats.

For detailed information on Opportunities and Challenges For Aviation Sector In India read this article here

What New Threats are Emerging in Aviation Safety?

1. Small electronic devices like pagers and walkie-talkies have been identified as potential threats, as seen in Lebanon. Explosions in these devices could be triggered by external signals.
2. In-flight explosions could cause cabin fires or damage to the aircraft’s pressure system, leading to decompression and oxygen mask deployment, creating a dangerous situation for passengers.
3. Mobile phones left on during flights can interfere with aircraft systems. One such incident caused a crash when an incoming signal misdirected the autopilot.

What security loopholes exist in India?

1. VVIP Exemptions: In India, VVIPs are exempt from security checks. This includes people with questionable backgrounds, unlike other countries where exemptions are limited.
2. 1989 Rule Expansion: Initially, only five categories were exempt from security checks, but later, even State Governors were added.
3. Unchecked Baggage: Some VVIPs and officials bypass hand baggage checks, increasing the risk of dangerous items being smuggled onboard.
4. No Global Parity: India’s broad exemption contrasts with tighter global norms.

What Should be Done?

1. Ban Wi-Fi on flights: To prevent external signals from triggering explosions in devices, as seen in Lebanon.
2. Introduce signal shields at airports: This would block dangerous signals, similar to safety measures introduced before 5G near airports.
3. Remove VVIP exemptions in India: VVIP baggage should not bypass security checks, preventing potential threats from being smuggled.
4. Enforce mobile phone flight rules: Keeping phones in flight mode prevents interference, as a crash occurred due to a live signal.
5. Ban risky devices on flights: Airlines should follow Beirut’s example of banning pagers and walkie-talkies.

Question for practice:

Discuss the emerging threats to aviation safety posed by small electronic devices and the security loopholes in India that contribute to these risks.