quote:
Originally posted by Argus:
I just read today in the Moscow Times (our local English language newspaper) that only now with the new aviation security legislation signed last week will all airlines be required to conform with Advance Passenger Information System (APIS). This is where information about incoming passengers and crew members is cross-checked against national databases of the State Department, Customs, INS, FBI, etc. I couldn't believe that this hadn't been a requirement previously! Some 58 airlines had "elected" to not participate in this program up until now when its mandatory. IMHO enforcing these measures makes a lot more sense and is much more effective than the "Michigan letters".
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Well said.
Enforcing the measures no doubt costs money, thus eating into airline profits. Hence the airlines electing not to participate.