What is the purpose of Physical Access Control Systems (PACS) at airports?

Physical Access Control Systems (PACS) at airports are crucial for maintaining security and safety by controlling who can access specific areas within the airport premises. The primary function of PACS is to ensure that only authorized personnel can enter secured and sterile areas, such as those surrounding the runway, boarding gates, baggage handling areas, and other sensitive locations.

By implementing PACS, airports can effectively manage the flow of individuals and ensure that security protocols are followed. This not only helps in protecting against potential security threats but also enhances the overall safety of passengers and airport staff. The various components of PACS, such as key cards, biometric scanners, and surveillance cameras, work together to monitor entry and exit points, providing a robust security framework.

In contrast, the other options focus on different operational aspects of airports that are not directly related to access control. Monitoring communication devices and managing flight schedules pertain to different areas of airport operations, while enforcing baggage checking procedures deals with security screening rather than access management. Thus, controlling access to secured and sterile areas is clearly the fundamental role of PACS in ensuring airport security.