On December 5, 2012, a working group of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Safety Information Protection Force (SIP TF) held a public listening session at the L’Enfant Plaza Hotel in Washington, DC. The purposes of the session were (1) to help the SIP TF understand the needs and perspectives of interested groups and individuals and (2) to identify a sound basis on which to consider approaches to balancing the protection of safety information with the administration of justice, safety-related regulatory action, and the public’s right to know. The session was moderated by Kenneth Quinn, Vice Chair of the SIP TF, and John Illson, Chief of the ICAO Integrated Safety Management Section.
The first part of the listening session focused on the protection and use of safety information in civil and criminal proceedings. Individuals representing various interest groups presented their perspectives on the use and protection of safety information and data during investigations and trials. The discussion also included best practices for maintaining the confidentiality of safety information during investigations and trials. Individuals gave recommendations for better handling and use of safety information for non-safety related purposes, including improvements to national laws, training programs, regional and international standards, and advanced arrangements.
The second part of the listening session provided a private setting for victims’ families and support groups to give their perspective on the issue of safety information protection. The discussion included the extent to which accident data and information should be protected and recommendations for international standards to protect safety information.
For further information or questions regarding the SIP TF listening session, please contact Ronce Almond at (202) 457-7790.