Stringent new airline and airport security measures have been agreed throughout Europe in the wake of the terrorist atrocities in the US.
EU transport ministers meeting in Brussels have agreed to impose tighter security controls that will make it compulsory to screen every piece of hold baggage loaded on board a plane in any airport in the 15 member states.
The comprehensive baggage screening will be brought in by the end of 2002, giving many airport authorities time to acquire the necessary screening equipment.
But other measures approved must come into force within a month - including the introduction of "security restricted areas" in all airports, background security checks on all airport and airline staff covering the previous five years before their employment in jobs with access to restricted areas, and routine X-ray screening of air crew.
Airport buildings will also have to be adapted to improve security.
AP