BRUSSELS, Sept. 22 (Xinhuanet) -- The European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union (EU), proposed on Thursday revising the air security regulation which was intended to establish common standards to deal with the terrorist threat.

    This legislation, which was adopted following the attacks on 11September 2001, has made it possible to strengthen security in theaviation sector and harmonize control.

    However, the 40 or so inspections carried out by the Commissionsince February 2004 to check for proper application have identified a number of shortcomings, according to the Commission.     

    "The new regulation will enable us to be more effective and react faster to a threat which is constantly changing. I therefore confirm that priority has been given to the safety and security oftransport," said EU Transport Commissioner Jacques Barrot.

    Under the proposed legislation, European Commission will be empowered to carry out inspections and ensure that common rules are properly applied in in-flight security measures and air traffic from third countries.

    EU members are also required to be more effective and respond quickly to the terrorist threat. They should adapt to technological progress and make adjustments based on inspection findings and lessons learnt from combating terrorism. Enditem