Implementation of Regulated Air Cargo Agent Regime (RCAR)
The Regulated Air Cargo Agent Regime (RCAR) is a security measure to enhance air cargo security on commercial passenger aircraft. Singapore is implementing the RCAR with effect from 1 April 2008, 1200hrs.
Under this regime, any cargo agent, freight forwarder or any other entity who carries on any business of handling cargo on commercial passenger aircraft may register to become a Regulated Air Cargo Agent (RCA) and be included in the List of RCAs maintained by Police. Once registered, the RCA is expected to fulfill conditions that specify the standards of protection for air cargo it employs in the handling, clearing, storing, securing and transporting air cargo; including the physical security of the premises.
A cargo agent / freight forwarder who registers as a RCA may get to enjoy these associated benefits:
- Shippers would prefer cargo agents who are RCAs to handle their shipments as there is an assurance on the level of security required;
- Shipments will be subjected to a lower level of screening and hence cost may be reduced;
- Avoid potential delays to cargo necessitated by the screening of unknown cargo; and
- Established security practices help prevent theft and pilferage.
Cargo agents / Freight forwarders who do not wish to register as RCAs may continue their current operations but shipments tendered for carriage on board commercial passenger aircraft will be subjected to 100% security screening at the airfreight terminals. Charges will be imposed for the application of the security screening after the State subsidies for cargo screening of known and unknown cargo expire after 3 and 1 year(s) of full implementation respectively.
For more information, you may wish to contact the RCAR Secretariat from the
Airport Police Division at tel: 65463383 or email to spf_rcar@spf.gov.sg.
Kindly disseminate the contents of this circular to all your staff, contractors, customers and visitors.
Thank you.
Regards,
RCAR Secretariat Airport Police Division |
