On behalf of its Members and the entire aviation industry, IATA works to ensure that new and enhanced security measures are effective, internationally harmonised and minimise disruption to passengers and shippers.
To do this, 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 58th IATA Annual General Meeting, held in June 2002, adopted a Security Resolution calling on all Member Airlines to ensure that effective airline security programmes are in place, consistent with ICAO Annex 17 requirements and industry best practices found in Security Management Systems (SEMS). All Member airlines are now required to have a Security Programme in place which meets or exceeds the requirements of the IATA Recommended Security Standards.
IATA's Security Group (SEG) composed of 10 heads of security from IATA Member airlines, meets twice a year to address aviation security issues and to propose and implement solutions.
Following the tragic events of 11 September 2001, and in accordance with SEC recommendations, the Global Aviation Security Action Group (GASAG) was formed. This forum of worldwide aviation industry organisations has reached consensus on a number of security issues. These industry positions are described fully in the GASAG position paper.
Key Issues being currently addressed by IATA are as follows:
- Global Harmonisation - The need for effective globally harmonised Security Measures is a priority issue for IATA. IATA meets regularly with key regulators to emphasise the need for global harmonisation when developing their respective regulations and participates in appropriate ICAO fora discussing security measures.
- Security Management Systems (SEMS) - SEMS is a proactive and performance-based approach to security. It is based on the capacity to identify threats and manage risk. A holistic approach to security operations, SEMS promotes security as a core value among all industry stakeholders. IATA will mandate that all it Member Airlines have implemented a SEMS beginning in March 2007.
- MANPADS - The threat of Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS) has been highlighted recently following attacks against civil aviation. IATA established the OPC MANPADS Task Force to develop industry positions and provide guidance for implementation of appropriate countermeasures. Due to the sensitive nature on the subject, the web site for this Task Force is a password protected site restricted to Security representatives of Member Airlines.
- Air Cargo Security - IATA is working closely with international organisations such as ICAO and the European Union as well national regulators to develop cargo security programmes which provide a high level of security while also ensuring the efficient movement of air cargo that is so vital to the global economy. To facilitate this effort, IATA has developed industry best practices and quality assurance systems as reflected in Cargo Services Conference Recommended Practice 1630.
- Passenger and Cabin Baggage Screening - The time spent at security checkpoints, especially in the United States, and the added stress incurred is keeping many traveller away from aviation, especially for short distance flights. IATA is working directly with the concerned airports and regulators to keep security checkpoint wait times to a minimum while ensuring high standards of security.
- 100% Hold Baggage Screening - ICAO has mandated that all States screen for rexplosives 100% of hold baggage for transport on international flight. IATA is working with regulators, airports and its Member Airlines to ensure that every State meets the deadline and implements a screening system that provides a high standard of security as well as ensuring that passenger flow and air traffic flow is not impeded.
- Simplifying Passenger Travel (SPT) is an industry initiative established to safely and securely use new technologies to simplify the passenger travel experience. This work 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.