Make all crew report early for pre-flight checks, urges Tiong

Tourism minister Tiong King Sing has urged airlines to require pilots and cabin crew to report for pre-flight checks two hours before their duty, following the arrest of a second officer in Indonesia for alleged drug trafficking. The tourism minister stated that airlines could adjust the type and extent of testing, emphasizing the importance of a more proactive approach to prevent such incidents.

He emphasized that the case involving a Malaysian pilot should not be viewed solely as an issue affecting one employee, as it raises concerns about broader weaknesses within the aviation system. Malaysia Aviation Group has ordered all 1,260 Malaysia Airlines pilots to undergo drug screening after the recent arrest. The pilot, who tested positive for drugs, was not involved in the flight's operation but was present in the cockpit as an observer.

Tiong stressed that the primary concern is the pilot's drug use, and existing checks are inadequate. He urged airlines and aviation authorities to take preventive measures rather than waiting for incidents to occur, highlighting the critical role of aviation safety in protecting passengers and the industry. The Cabinet has allocated two weeks for the home affairs and transport ministries to develop a comprehensive plan to enhance security measures at KLIA, following the pilot's successful passage through baggage screening while a large quantity of drugs went undetected.