The ASIC question is finally settled and efficiently too.
The Hon Warren Truss MP
Minister for Transport and Regional Services
17 October 2005
035WT/2005
CASA TO BE ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR PILOTS
The Australian Government Minister for Transport and Regional Services, Warren Truss, today announced that the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) will become an issuing body for the Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC).
Mr Truss said pilots will now be able to complete their pilot licence security check and obtain an ASIC in one process through CASA.
"This will streamline the ASIC and pilot licence application process and allow for one application form and one security check," he said.
The new arrangements will make it easier for all pilots to meet the stronger security regulatory requirements.
Mr Truss said that it was important that everyone in the aviation industry - particularly pilots and industry associations - understood the options and the processes involved in the issuing of ASICs.
"Prior to the commencement of the Aviation Transport Security Act 2004 and associated Regulations on 10 March 2005, only commercial pilots underwent background checks as part of their initial application for a pilot's licence, They were then re-checked every five years as part of the licence renewal process.
"The new Act requires that anyone who needs access to secure areas of security-controlled airports must undergo a background check every two years.
"Background checking for an ASIC is more in-depth than that required for a commercial pilot's licence. In order to cut red tape and costs for pilots, the background checks for new CASA photo flight crew licences will be waived if a pilot has undergone background checking in connection with an ASIC in the previous two years," he said.
Pilots, such as crop dusters, who do not require access to a security-controlled airport will not need an ASIC. For these pilots, CASA will conduct similar background checks as part of the issuing of new photo flight crew licences.
Mr Truss said he was encouraged that many general aviation pilots have been actively pursuing their obligation to obtain an ASIC.
"This is a further demonstration of their intention to play their part in continuing to strengthen Australia's excellent aviation security reputation," he said.
"Over the next week about 35,000 pilots will receive an application form and information pack to explain the process for obtaining appropriate identification.
"I urge all pilots to lodge their ASIC application form with CASA as soon as possible so they can meet the 31 December deadline for displaying an ASIC," he said.
Congratulations a good start for the new Minister.