Following up on aims to promote a genuine security union and a more competitive EU security industry, the European Commission has proposed a single EU procedure for aviation security screening equipment.

Aviation security screening equipment is used for the screening of passengers, airport staff, cabin baggage, hold baggage, supplies, air cargo, and mail.

The commission proposes a single EU certification procedure for aviation security screening equipment. This will allow security equipment approved in one member state to also be put on the market in others in line with the principle of mutual recognition.

A single EU certification will help overcome the current market fragmentation and strengthen the competitiveness of the EU security industry, according to the commission, and will also boost employment in a sector which represents a considerable market, with an annual global turnover of $16 billion, $4.7 billion in the EU alone.

“A more competitive EU security industry,” said a statement from the European Commission, “will be able to offer technological solutions which will increase the security of European citizens and the capacity of Europe to prevent and respond to security threats.”