DHS to perform 100% cargo scanning dry-run

Global- The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has begun a trial-test of its 100% scanning operation this week at the Dulles International Airport near Washington, in the hope of reducing the use of cargo planes as a possible avenue for terror attacks.

For the duration of the test, all incoming air cargo will pass through radiation detectors.  The department's regulation for 100% scanning of all incoming air cargo is designed to avert the use of cargo on airplanes as a potential avenue for terrorism.

Every piece of cargo will be scanned during the pilot, but the emphasis is on international cargo, media sources said, citing DHS

Stephen Fenwick, senior vice president of operations, DHL Asia Pacific said, "Should the Dulles Airport trial test be extended to other airports in the US, there would be some impact on operations because of the time required to put cargo through x-ray machines, but the extent of the impact would be dependent on the processes put in place to mitigate it."

Fenwick continues, "DHL shipments in Asia Pacific are not impacted by the current trial test at Dulles Airport as it is not a major airport within DHL's network. Currently, in Singapore, there is a requirement on US carriers for 100% x-ray of cargo that goes onto passenger flights, and we comply with the regulation."

DHS launched a similar pilot program for 100% maritime cargo scanning in June this year.

Joe Lieberman, chairman of Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee said, "I am pleased to learn that the expected delays and bottlenecks failed to materialize and that 100% scanning at low volume ports is entirely possible; Unfortunately, the challenges and the costs increase at higher volume ports, and the Department is not confident it can detect the presence of nuclear materials that may be hidden in cargo that emits radiation naturally."

By the end of the year, four more US airports are expected to be equipped with Radiation Portal Monitors. DHS plans to eventually install the detectors at 30 of the nation's largest airports.