Aviation safety review after German plane tragedy

Australian aviation authorities are reviewing initial information from the investigation into the tragic loss of Germanwings flight 4U9525 that is thought to have been flown deliberately into the French Alps by one of its pilots on 24 March, killing everyone on board.

In light of the tragedy, Australian Government aviation security and safety agencies are now examining if current cockpit security and safety requirements need further strengthening.

“A more thorough review will consider information from, and the findings of, the investigation of the recent tragic loss of a Germanwings Airbus A320 and will recommend any required changes to aviation security and safety regulations and procedures,” said Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss.

“We already have strict safety regulations in Australia to safeguard passengers and we take a preventative, layered approach to aviation security.”

Truss said airline pilots are psychologically tested as part of their recruitment process and must also undergo at least annual medical, including mental health, checks under Civil Aviation Safety Authority licence requirements.

To prevent hijacking of an aircraft, Aviation Transport Security Regulations also require all aircraft used for regular passenger services to have a hardened cockpit door.

Regulations state the door must remain locked for the duration of the flight, except when it is necessary to allow a person to enter or leave the cockpit. Once an aircraft has taken off, entry to the cockpit must be authorised by the pilot in command.

“The current regulations do not require airlines to replace a pilot who temporarily leaves the cockpit,” Truss said.

“Careful consideration needs to be made following thorough investigation to ensure that altering current procedures does not open other potential vulnerabilities,” Truss said.

“Our two major international and domestic airlines are undertaking their own safety and security risk assessments of cockpit procedures following the recent tragedy.”