The airfreight industry is continuously evolving to address security challenges, and several recent developments and innovations have emerged to enhance cargo security. Here are some notable examples: There has been a significant focus on developing and deploying advanced screening technologies for cargo, particularly in the case of fast parcel screening.
These technologies include advanced X-ray, explosive detection systems (EDS), and trace detection systems. These tools enable more accurate and efficient screening of cargo, helping to detect prohibited items and enhance security measures. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms are being used to analyse vast amounts of data related to cargo shipments and identify patterns or anomalies that may indicate security risks.
These technologies can help automate threat detection processes and enhance the effectiveness of security screening procedures. Biometric identification systems, such as fingerprint or iris scanning, are being integrated into the cargo handling processes to enhance security and verify the identity of individuals involved in handling or transporting cargo.
Biometric authentication helps ensure that only authorised personnel have access to sensitive cargo areas. There is a growing emphasis on collaborative security initiatives involving multiple stakeholders, including airlines, airports, government agencies, and industry associations.
These initiatives aim to foster information sharing, coordination, and joint efforts to address security threats effectively. Industry organisations and regulatory bodies are continuously developing and updating supply chain security standards and best practices to mitigate security risks throughout the cargo transportation process. Compliance with these standards helps ensure consistent and robust security measures across the airfreight industry. There is a heightened focus on providing comprehensive training and awareness programmes for personnel involved in cargo handling and transportation. These programmes educate employees about security protocols, procedures, and the importance of vigilance in detecting and reporting security threats.
Supporting the sector
As part of their work, representing airlines in regions or markets where they may not have a direct presence, and through close collaboration with airlines, General Sales and Service Agents (GSSAs) ensure cargo security measures are implemented effectively.
This partnership involves communicating and enforcing security protocols and procedures set by the airlines. HAE Training supports the GSSA business through Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods compliance auditing and training. This enables the sector to provide feedback to airlines regarding security vulnerabilities or areas for improvement based on their local knowledge and experience.
“HAE Training can provide security training and awareness programmes for HAE Group and other GSSA companies, with this training covering topics such as recognising suspicious behaviour, handling of sensitive cargo, and proper documentation requirements,” Matthew Pearce, Director of HAE Training, explained.
“We collaborate with airlines and regulatory bodies, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States and the Department for Transport in the United Kingdom, to ensure compliance with security regulations and standards and share information about security threats, incidents, and best practices.”
“This involves identifying vulnerabilities in the supply chain and implementing measures to reduce the risk of security breaches. HAE Training has a team of highly experienced quality assurance and compliance auditors. This team is assigned to assess regulatory compliance globally by working on bespoke audit templates, which reflect historic and emerging threats and effective mitigation. “HAE also work with airlines and technology providers to integrate advanced security technologies into their operations. This may include the use of advanced screening equipment, tracking systems, and data analytics tools to enhance cargo security measures.”
All-inclusive approach
Ensuring the secure handling and transportation of high-risk or sensitive cargo in the airfreight sector requires a comprehensive method involving various measures and protocols. Risk assessment: Conducting thorough risk assessments to identify high-risk or sensitive cargo shipments. This involves analysing factors such as the nature of the cargo, origin and destination, known security threats, and other relevant information. Advanced screening technologies: Advanced screening technologies, such as X-ray systems, explosive detection systems (EDS), and trace detection systems, are employed to thoroughly inspect high-risk cargo for prohibited items or security threats. These technologies help ensure that cargo undergoes rigorous screening before being loaded onto aircraft. Special handling procedures: Implementing special handling procedures for high-risk or sensitive cargo, which may include additional security checks, enhanced supervision, and restricted access to cargo areas.
Special handling procedures help mitigate security risks and ensure proper control over sensitive shipments. Secured facilities and infrastructure: Ensuring that cargo handling facilities, warehouses, and vehicles are equipped with appropriate security measures, such as access controls, surveillance cameras, and intrusion detection systems, to prevent unauthorised access and tampering. Chain of custody management: Implementing robust chain of custody management procedures to track and monitor high-risk cargo shipments at every stage of the transportation process. This includes maintaining detailed records of custody transfers, documenting inspections, and verifying the identity of personnel involved in handling the cargo. Security training and awareness: Providing comprehensive security training and awareness programmes for employees involved in the handling and transportation of high-risk cargo.
Training programmes educate employees about security protocols and procedures and the importance of vigilance in detecting and reporting security threats. There is an ongoing focus on insider threat and security culture across organisations. Collaboration with authorities: Collaborating with relevant authorities, such as customs agencies, law enforcement agencies, and regulatory bodies, to share information, coordinate security efforts, and respond effectively to security incidents or emergencies involving high-risk cargo. By implementing these measures and protocols, the airfreight sector can enhance the security and integrity of high-risk or sensitive cargo shipments, minimise the risk of security breaches, and ensure the safe and secure transportation of goods by air.
“Standardised training programmes can bring numerous benefits to the airfreight industry, particularly in promoting consistent security practices across different regions,” Diaz highlighted. “Mandatory aviation security training ensures that personnel are well-versed in relevant security regulations and requirements, leading to better compliance with regulatory standards. This reduces the risk of non-compliance penalties and helps maintain the integrity of the air cargo supply chain.
“HAE Training is fully engaged with a GSSA business which means that standardised training programs can be updated and modified to address emerging security threats and challenges effectively. “By staying abreast of evolving security risks, the airfreight industry can adapt its training programmes to ensure that personnel are adequately prepared to mitigate new threats.”
