The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in April 2008 issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposing to make it mandatory for airlines to collect and submit to DHS biometric data of departing foreigners at airports and seaports.

In AAPA's response to the NPRM, we stated that border control, including exit immigration, is clearly a state function and a government responsibility. It is inappropriate for private companies such as the airlines or cruise liners to take over such a core function which should rightfully be performed by border control and immigration authorities. AAPA also questions the effectiveness of a proposed border control programme which does not apply to the multitudes of visitors crossing US land borders. The NPRM raises a number of operational and legal issues that the DHS has not addressed.

AAPA is currently working with industry partners and stakeholders to address the industry's concerns with regards to this proposed programme.



Related link:

• US DHS Notice or Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM)
• AAPA's submission to the NPRM
• AAPA's participation in an informal coalition opposing the US-VISIT Exit Solution