DEMARCHE ON AVIATION THREAT -- DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

UNCLAS SANTO DOMINGO 004943

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PTER ASEC EAIR DR
SUBJECT: DEMARCHE ON AVIATION THREAT -- DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

REF: STATE 258046


1. EcoPol chief and Econoff delivered subject demarche on
September 9 to Director General of Civil Aviation Carlos
Alvarez, who undertook to convoke directors of airports in
the Dominican Republic. Alvarez suggested further points of
contact, which Embassy is pursuing.


2. Embassy has prepared letter requesting closer cooperation
on aviation security, warning of the catastrophic effect on
tourism to the Caribbean of any terrorist hijacking which
might occur in the area. Letter includes specific request
that all airport officials be instructed that airline
personnel have the authority and legal obligation to refuse
to carry undocumented or improperly documented persons.
Letter cites specific cases from mid-August, in which
intruders were necessarily aided by airport personnel and
asks for investigation and prosecution of those abetting
undocumented potential migrants. Embassy is sending letter
on September 16 to directors of all airports, immigration,
customs, and airport security services.
HERTELL