Effective cargo security is absolutely vital. The threats—whether real or perceived—are always present. Those malicious intent are constantly seeking vulnerabilities, and the airfreight industry needs to be vigilant 100 percent of the time. Airlines, passengers and cargo handlers depend on cargo security measures to ensure their protection. There’s no room for error. While bad actors only need to succeed once, the industry must always get it right.

“We take this responsibility very seriously. Our approach involves a comprehensive system that combines advanced technologies and skilled personnel. Each element is meticulously integrated to ensure the highest security standards,” Chris Daniels, Chief Strategy Officer of Global K9, said.

“For us, cutting corners in security is not an option. We are deeply invested in the process, and we recognise the critical importance of staying ahead of potential threats. Security demands constant vigilance and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”

Canine control

Dogs are an incredibly effective and efficient way to screen cargo. Unlike traditional X-ray machines, dogs can identify threats or prohibited items without the need to break down the cargo for inspection. These highly trained animals are capable of detecting even the smallest traces of substances, making them one of the best methods available today.

However, it’s always wise to employ multiple methods of cargo screening. If a dog alerts to something, having secondary options ensures the cargo can be cleared or further investigated. 

“Dogs play a critical role in maintaining the throughput of air cargo, which is essential given the demand for speed in airfreight. People choose air transport because it’s the fastest way to move goods from point A to point B. Incorporating canine screening into the process aligns with global regulations and has proven to streamline cargo movement, not just in the US, but around the world,” Daniels explained.

Working together

Much of what is involved in the cargo security process requires collaboration. For example, when a new type of packaging or conveyance is introduced—whether it’s wooden crates, cardboard boxes, or what’s used for e-commerce, those involved in the security process must understand and adapt to these materials to keep the aviation industry safe. 

This is crucial, as new packaging types can introduce variables, or in some cases, potential distractors that bad actors might exploit, requiring canine handlers to obtain samples of items to familiarise the animals with all materials and methods.

“By staying closely connected with the industry, we’re prepared to handle various scenarios. While we’ve likely encountered the vast majority of packaging types, there’s always something new—be it a novel shipping method or a new composite material,” Daniels outlined. “In these cases, we test and confirm the capabilities of our dogs. The answer to “Can the dogs detect this?” is almost always yes.

“This collaboration is a delicate balance. We must remain 100 percent accurate and compliant while also running a business that meets efficiency and effectiveness standards. Our methods have been rigorously tested and proven, whether by the TSA, our clients, or independent auditors.

“Ultimately, the partnership with regulators is critical. It ensures that we maintain high standards of security while also fostering innovation and operational excellence.”

Strong system

The process of using dogs for detection is well-established, with the industry relying on this method for a long time. While there are regional nuances to consider, especially in terms of regulations and environments, the core process remains largely consistent.

In the US, for example, regulators set specific rules that must be followed. Similarly, in other regions—whether it’s the UK, Europe, the EU, or China—there are established guidelines and frameworks. While the environments and certain operational details may vary, the overall process is standardised because it’s proven to be highly effective.

Likewise, when it comes to the risks and threats being screened for, these are generally consistent across regions. The types of explosives or other dangerous materials being detected—such as explosive cocktails or chemical mixtures—tend to be the same worldwide. There might be slight regional differences, but the base threats are universal.

“Dogs are trained to detect anomalies, regardless of the region or material being screened. Their ability to adapt to different scenarios ensures they can identify anything unusual or outside the norm, making them an invaluable part of the screening process,” Daniels highlighted. “While the US is large enough that regional questions might arise even within the country, the core threats and methods remain consistent throughout.”