Qantas to enhance Airport Security

Qantas has confirmed it will implement the Australian Federal Government's new security measures.

The Chief Executive Officer of Qantas, Mr Geoff Dixon, said the airline would introduce the new measures at Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth airports before the end of the month.

These measures will include:

- the closure of a significant number of airside access gates, including a 90 per cent reduction in Sydney;

- security inspections to cover all staff and their possessions, visitors and vehicles at the remaining entry/exit points; and

- increased uniformed security presence on the ramp and in baggage areas.

Mr Dixon said Qantas would also, as soon as practicable, install covert CCTV equipment in workplaces and the holds of aircraft, which would be enhanced by the substantial upgrade of overt CCTV equipment recently announced.

Additional measures at other airports will be introduced progressively after discussions with the Government.

Mr Dixon said Qantas would also support any action by the Federal Government to tighten the background screening process for all people employed in the aviation industry.

"We are also asking State Governments to position State Police at Australian airports for community policing and crime management duties, in support of the counter-terrorist activities undertaken by the Australian Federal Police," Mr Dixon said.

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