Icelandic Volcano Should Be A Wake-Up Call for Air Cargo Security
Jena McNeill /
Flights in Europe are grounded as people wait for the ash from the recent eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano to settle out of the air. Europeans are being warned that they may face shortages in fruits and vegetables, as shipments, brought in by air, have not been able to arrive. These shortages should serve as a wake-up call for the U.S. as it moves forward with 100% percent air cargo screening mandates this summer.
Much like Europe, the U.S. relies heavily on a “just in time” supply chain to receive its own perishable goods and other products. “Just in time” means that items like fruits and vegetables are shipped at the last minute and delivered quickly to maintain their freshness. Any problems in this system can equate to millions of dollars in lost revenue. On August 3, 2010, however, Congress will require TSA to begin screening 100% of air cargo, from both international and domestic destinations before it can be placed in the belly of an airplane. (more…)