MEDIA STATEMENT

18 November 2014

CAA fines Minister for security breach

The Civil Aviation Authority has completed its investigation into an alleged security breach at Christchurch International Airport by then Minister of Transport Gerry Brownlee and two aides on 24 July, 2014.

Director of Civil Aviation Graeme Harris said airport security was a serious matter and there had been a thorough investigation. The incident occurred when Mr Brownlee and his aides entered a gate lounge through an exit only door.

“I would like to make it clear this investigation applied the same assessment criteria and level of rigour as would be the case in any similar event,” he said.

Mr Brownlee, his aides and several witnesses had all cooperated fully in the investigation.

Mary Scholtens QC undertook an independent review of the investigation to ensure it was consistent with the standards required by the CAA.

Minister Brownlee has been issued an infringement notice and is required to pay a $2000 infringement fine for breaching Civil Aviation Rule 19.357(b), which states no person may be in an airport security area without an appropriate identity card or document.

The two parliamentary aides who accompanied him have been issued formal warning letters for the same offence, which reflects their limited culpability in respect to the incident.

“The subjects of this investigation are now fully aware of the importance of abiding by airport security rules, and the consequences of breaching these. The publicity surrounding the incident should also act as a warning to the traveling public that any airport security breaches are taken very seriously by the CAA,” said Graeme Harris.

Since the incident the CAA has required the Aviation Security Service, Christchurch International Airport and Air New Zealand to undertake a range of corrective actions to enhance aviation security and prevent an incident of this nature re-occurring.

On the day of the incident Christchurch International Airport began the process of identifying a new exit procedure. This involved reinforcing to airport representatives the need for effective control of the exit door in question, erecting signage to discourage passengers entering through the door and placing an order for a new, one-way turnstile that will act as an additional deterrent. It is expected to be operational at the end of next week.

The CAA is satisfied the interim steps taken by the airport are appropriate to prevent any repeat of an incident of this nature until such time as the turnstile is in place.

ENDS

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