“BAESS”
– the Birmingham Aviation Enthusiasts Security Scheme
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With the continuing threat of terrorism there has been a heightening

of security at airports throughout the world, making the hobby of

watching and photographing aircraft an increasingly difficult pastime.
.

Enthusiasts have found themselves “moved on” from their favoured

observation points, being classed as a possible security risk. The

West Midlands Police at Birmingham International Airport have put

in place a security scheme to assist enthusiasts in continuing their

hobby, as well as tapping into the knowledge and presence of said

enthusiasts in the fight against potential terrorism and crime.
.
The “BAESS” is a joint initiative of the West Midlands Police based

at Birmingham International Airport and the Birmingham Aviation

Enthusiasts Group and is sponsored by Birmingham

International Airport Limited. It has the following aims:

· The use of enthusiasts’ knowledge of aviation environment and

observation skills to report any suspicious activity.

· To promote responsible behavior amongst enthusiasts,

discouraging the small minority that cause damage, obstructions etc.

· To promote greater understanding of the enthusiast’s cause

and consultation on enthusiasts’ issues with both the West Midlands

Police and the Airport Company.

An ID badge is issued (free of charge) to all members of the

“BAESS”. The badge does not confer entry to any private,

restricted or secure area, it merely confirms that the holder

is a genuine aviation enthusiast, and is intended to save both

Police and enthusiast time by providing a quick and easy

check when required.

Enthusiasts wishing to join the scheme can obtain an application

form from the “Aviation Experience and Gift Centre” at the

viewing gallery at Birmingham International Airport

or by sending an email to: gordon@airtimepublishing.co.uk

Please report suspicious activity

to the Airport Police on

0121-712-6150/6150 or

the Anti-Terrorist hotline

on 0800 789321
.
The “Birmingham Aviation Enthusiasts Security Scheme” is a joint

initiative of the West Midlands Police Airport Division and the

Birmingham Aviation Enthusiasts Group and is sponsored

by Birmingham International Airport Limited

.

Promoting co-operation between Aviation
Enthusiasts, West Midlands Police and
Birmingham International Airport