The National approved on Tuesday, by 166 votes to 25, a Federal Council project to this effect. However, he provided some clarifications. The file goes to the Council of States.
This involves implementing the ‘Passenger Name Record’ (PNR) system, already adopted in the European Union (EU) and in the USA in particular. It is an established instrument in the fight against terrorism and serious crime, declared several elected officials from all sides. If Switzerland does not follow, it could become a fault in the middle of Europe.
Information concerning sensitive personal data will not be communicated. Regarding the duration of data retention, data showing no indication of a terrorist offense or another serious criminal offense will not be recorded for more than six months. They will also be pseudonymised after one month.
According to Federal Councilor Beat Jans, experience has shown that the system is effective. If Switzerland does not follow, it could become a fault line in the middle of Europe. People could bypass the EU system by flying to Switzerland and continuing their journey within the Schengen area by land.
Fines and withdrawal of slots possible
In addition, more and more states are threatening to impose heavy fines on Swiss airlines that do not communicate PNR data, or even withdraw their slots. The use of the PNR also constitutes one of the conditions of the USA with a view to maintaining Switzerland in the visa waiver program covering tourist or business stays for a maximum of 90 days.
This project concerns commercial aviation but the left and the PVL also demanded that private aviation be subject to the law. A vulnerability known to potential criminals. (OF)
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