The Aviation Security Service is defending its ability to enforce strict new rules for carry-on luggage on international flights.

Avsec general manager Mark Everitt disputed claims in the Press that it could not compel passengers to hand over liquids, aerosols and gels that exceeded the maximums allowed on board.

The Press said legislation empowering Avsec officers to impound goods had not yet become law, so officers had no power other than to bluff and request that they are handed over. Instead they relied on airlines refusing to carry passengers who declined to relinquish their carry-on goods.

But Mr Everitt said the Civil Aviation Act gave officers powers to ensure passengers did not carry on liquids, aerosols and gels, although he said he preferred to term it ``relinquishment'' rather than seizure.

``New Zealand's contribution to global aviation security is robust and stands up to international scrutiny,'' he said.

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