On behalf of its Members and the entire aviation industry, IATA works to ensure constant, effective security measures are in place. To achieve these standards, IATA collects, analyses and disseminates information about international civil aviation security to its Members. It also assists in developing industry policies and procedures to combat unlawful acts against civil aviation.
The Security Resolution ensures effective airline security programmes are in place with all Member Airlines. The resolution is based on industry best practices found in the Security Management Systems (SEMS). All Member Airlines are required to have a Security Programme in place which meets or exceeds the requirments of the IATA Recommended Security Standards.
IATA’s Security Group (SEG) is composed of 10 IATA Member Airline Heads of Security. They meet twice a year to address aviation security issues and consequentially propose and implement solutions. In addition, the Global Aviation Security Action Group (GASAG) composed of worldwide aviation industry organizations was built to reach consensus on security issues. The industry positions are described in the GASAG position paper.
Key Security issues being addressed by IATA:
- Global Harmonisation – IATA meets regularly with key regulators to emphasize the need for global harmisation when develoing their respective regulations. The 2008 OPS Forum Security Track discussed whether having a risk-based approach to security was contradictory to global harminisation. What we need besides harmonization are good national rules that are compatible and recognized internationally.
- Security Management Systems (SEMS) – SEMS is a proactive and performance-based approach to security. IATA has mandated all Member Airlines to have an implemented SEMS.
- MANPADS – The threat of Man Portable Air Defense Systems was highlighted after attacks against civil aviation. IATA’s OPC MANPADS Task Force develops industry positions and provides guidance for implementation of appropriate countermeasures.
- Air Cargo Security – IATA works closely with international organisations like ICAO, the European Union and national regulators to develop programmes which provide a high level of security while ensuring the efficient movement of air cargo. Best practices and assurance systems developed are listed in the Cargo Services Conference Recommended Practice 1630. At 2008 World Cargo Symposium Cargo Security Track commitment was made to grow customer engagement in the development of supply chain integrity through the Secure Freight Programme.
- Passenger and Cabin Baggage Screening – IATA works directly with airports and regulators to keep security checkpoint wait times to a minimum while ensuring high standards of security. Recently, the US introduced their plans for a US VISIT Air Exit Program. This proposed rule would force airlines instead of US government officials, to collect and transmit fingerprint biometrics for the 33 million foreign visitors that depart from the US each year.
- 100% Hold Baggage Screening – ICAO mandated all States to screen for explosives on 100% of hold baggage for all international flights. IATA works with regulators, airports and Member Airlines to ensure that every state has implemented the 100% hold baggage screening system.
- Simplifying Passenger Travel (SPT) – SPT is an industry initiative established to safely and securely use new technologies to simplify the passenger travel experience. The initiative is undertaken by the SPT Interest Group whose members include; airlines, airports, customs and immigration authorities, industry suppliers, system integrators and consultants. IATA contributes project management support.