The EU intends to launch a PNR system similar to the collection procedure applied by the US.

Under the plan unveiled on Nov. 6 as part of a broader counterterrorism package, the 27 member states would be required to collect 19 fields of data from passengers flying to or from the EU. Data would include the e-mail address and phone number of the passenger, ticket and travel agent information and payment details and would be provided 24 hr. before departure.

Airlines would be responsible for collection. PNR information would be kept for 13 years and made available to specialized national "units" carrying out risk assessments and to law enforcement agents like police and customs officers that may be part of anti-terror activities or investigations.

"Our goal remains preserving the right balance between the fundamental right to security of citizens, the right to life and the other fundamental rights of individuals, including privacy and procedural rights," VP-Justice, Freedom and Security Franco Frattini said after the Commission adopted the package. He indicated he wants the measures to enter into effect at the end of next year. Governments of all 27 EU member states must endorse the proposals unanimously if they are to become law.

The collection of PNR data by the US has led to tension between the EU and US over the past several years, with the European Parliament arguing that the US requests and collection system may impinge on the civil liberties of EU citizens. An accord finally was reached over the summer.