Ex-Malaysia Airlines pilot calls for more random flight crew checks after drug bust

A former senior pilot with Malaysia Airlines has called for increased random checks on flight crews, emphasizing that such measures could serve as an additional layer of security.

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Surprise checks conducted more frequently every day can be the last barrier before the plane departs.

Datuk Kapten Nik Ahmad Huzlan Nik Hussain, the former chief pilot, stated that while the existing multi-layered security system and standard operating procedures are adequate, frequent daily "surprise checks" could act as a final deterrent before aircraft depart.

He stressed that these checks should be conducted "prudently without embarrassing or inconveniencing the crew." His comments come after reports of a Malaysian Airlines co-pilot being detained in Indonesia for allegedly smuggling drugs and ecstasy pills. The 39-year-old assistant pilot was arrested at Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport after Indonesian customs officials detected suspicious items in his luggage.

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Surprise inspection procedures need to be implemented prudently without embarrassing or inconveniencing the crew who will perform their duties.

Further inspection revealed a substantial amount of ecstasy pills and some methamphetamine. Nik Ahmad Huzlan explained that smuggling attempts can still occur when individuals identify loopholes. He noted that many previous smuggling attempts have been intercepted without public knowledge. "Crew members usually receive different treatment from passengers to move to the aircraft. 'Give Way to Aircrew' is often displayed before entering the scanner. However, the screening process level remains the same, with scrutiny like all passengers," he said.

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Crew members usually receive different treatment from passengers to move to the aircraft. ‘Give Way to Aircrew’ is often displayed before entering the scanner. However, the screening process level remains the same, with scrutiny like all passengers.

He added that the ongoing "leaks" indicate that opportunities for smuggling still exist. "This case is not ordinary smuggling because it involves millions of ringgit, and is believed to be planned with elements of conspiracy to ensure the smuggled assets reach their destination," he stated.

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This case is not ordinary smuggling because it involves millions of ringgit, and is believed to be planned with elements of conspiracy to ensure the smuggled assets reach their destination.