The EU-US Passenger Name Record Agreement (PNR Agreement) is a crucial tool for the exchange of passenger data between the European Union and the United States. The agreement aims to enhance security through the exchange of passenger data for anyone travelling between the two territories.

What is PNR?

Passenger Name Record (PNR) is a record in the airline reservation system containing information about the passenger and their travel itinerary. The information includes passenger name, address, phone number, email address, credit card details, travel itinerary, and baggage details. The PNR data is collected by airlines during the booking process and is held in their computer reservation systems.

The purpose of PNR data is to facilitate travel arrangements, such as reservation confirmations, ticketing, and flight changes. However, it is also used by law enforcement agencies to detect and prevent terrorist activities and other serious crimes.

What is the EU-US PNR Agreement?

The EU-US PNR Agreement was first signed in 2007 and entered into force in 2012. The agreement allows the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to access PNR data of passengers flying from the EU to the US. The data is used to identify potential terrorist threats and other serious crimes.

In return, the EU can request access to PNR data of passengers flying from the US to the EU. The data is used to prevent and detect serious crimes, such as drug trafficking and human smuggling.

The EU-US PNR Agreement has been the subject of controversy since its inception. Critics argue that the agreement undermines privacy and civil liberties, as it allows the collection and storage of large amounts of personal data. Supporters, on the other hand, argue that the agreement is necessary to ensure the safety of air travel and prevent terrorist attacks.

What are the key provisions of the EU-US PNR Agreement?

The EU-US PNR Agreement contains several key provisions, including:

1. Data retention: The agreement requires airlines to retain PNR data for five years in their reservation systems. The DHS is allowed to access PNR data for up to 15 years.

2. Data protection: The agreement includes provisions to protect the privacy and security of PNR data. Airlines are required to encrypt and transmit PNR data securely to the authorities.

3. Purpose limitation: PNR data can only be used for the detection, prevention, and investigation of terrorist offences and other serious crimes.

4. Access control: Access to PNR data is restricted to authorized personnel who need it for law enforcement purposes.

5. Redress: The agreement provides for a system of redress for passengers who believe their rights have been violated. Passengers can request access to their PNR data and have it corrected or deleted if necessary.

Conclusion

The EU-US PNR Agreement is a controversial tool for the exchange of passenger data between the EU and the US. While it aims to enhance security and prevent terrorist attacks, it also raises concerns about privacy and civil liberties. As the agreement continues to be reviewed and updated, it is important to strike a balance between security and privacy to ensure safe and effective air travel.