EU wants to fight terrorism with more passenger data

Airlines could have to provide more data on passengers to countries under new laws proposed by the European Union.

European officials want law enforcement authorities in member states to receive Passenger Name Record (PNR) information, which will include names, passport numbers, addresses, credit card details, e-mail addresses and phone numbers.

The proposal is one of a raft of measures aimed at combating terrorism, and means airlines flying both to and from EU member states will need to provide countries with the information.

They currently have to communicate Advanced Passenger Information, which is used for fighting illegal immigration. An EU spokesperson said, "The added value of the PNR is that it helps identify unknown people and develop risk indicators."

Passenger Information Units in member states will receive the data, carry out risk assessments and identify people who will be subjected to further enquiries upon their arrival or departure from the country.

The EU said, "It is important that law enforcement authorities are equipped with the best possible tools to investigate and prevent terrorist networks. The PNR offers one of those useful tools."