DHS wants early passenger info

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has submitted a proposal that will force all international departures heading to the U.S. to submit information about all the passengers aboard the plane prior to take off.

Through the new plan, airlines could send the entire list of information on the flight and the people onboard up to 60 minutes before departure or through a constant relay system as passengers check in.

At present, airlines must transmit travelers' information shortly after take-off, which can lead to the costly and awkward process of flights being diverted or turned back if any individual raises suspicion among U.S. officials.

The new proposals may also end the practice of international airlines having to screen their passengers against governmental "no fly" lists during check-in or boarding.

"Our priority is to keep terrorists out of the United States by preventing them from boarding international flights," said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff.

Privacy laws in the European Union (EU) have prevented similar legislation being introduced before.

In May, the highest court in the EU struck down a proposal to allow airlines to provide the DHS with extensive passenger information, such as fare payment details, phone numbers, and addresses. This directive is currently being redrafted.

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