The security system at European airports—Tour d’Horizon

Abstract

This paper aims to provide an analysis of the existing security system at European airports. At first, the security is defined and the considerations of the air passenger security on the ground and in the air are discussed. Subsequently, current aspects shaping the European aviation security policy are introduced. The analysis of stakeholders and their roles in aviation security is presented. The passengers’ perspective is of special focus. Next, security measures such as physical security measures and personnel are presented while specific issues such as technology deployment, standards and passenger acceptance are discussed in the European context. New concept for security is introduced. The analysis conducted leads us to the conclusions. The existing security system at European airports is rather reactive than proactive. The new concepts rely heavily on technological developments while it is crucial to increase the focus on intelligence gathering and passenger experience. Based on the identified gaps in the existing literature, further research should focus on CBA of European aviation security system as well as human drivers of (in)security.