The global air cargo industry is confronting increasingly complex security challenges, prompting international organizations to develop new guidelines that aim to enhance safety while maintaining trade efficiency. The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) recently released two key documents addressing these concerns.
New Guidelines Address Evolving Threats
The joint publications— Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) Guidelines and Coordinated Guidelines for Customs Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) and Aviation Security Regulated Agents/Known Consignors (RA/KC) Programs —represent a decade of collaboration between the organizations. These frameworks seek to address vulnerabilities in international trade supply chains while facilitating legitimate commerce.
Background: Emerging Security Risks
International trade supply chains face growing threats from terrorism, smuggling, and other illicit activities exploiting air cargo channels. Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and incendiary devices pose particular risks to aviation security. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of secure supply chains, especially for transporting critical medical supplies like vaccines.
Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, WCO Secretary General, emphasized: "The COVID-19 context and the need for secure vaccine distribution underscore the necessity for strong cooperation between customs, civil aviation authorities, and stakeholders." He encouraged members to "fully leverage advance cargo information for risk assessment and coordinate partnership programs to ensure secure and efficient air cargo supply chains."
Key Provisions of the PLACI Guidelines
The PLACI framework enhances security by collecting and analyzing cargo information before loading. This supplemental approach doesn't replace existing screening but improves risk assessment capabilities. Core elements include:
- Information collection: Requires detailed cargo data including shipper, consignee, goods description, and routing
- Risk assessment: Evaluates potential threats to determine if additional screening is needed
- Information sharing: Encourages collaboration between customs, aviation authorities, and other agencies
- International cooperation: Promotes cross-border collaboration on risk assessment and information exchange
Implementation requires establishing information systems, developing assessment standards, strengthening international cooperation, and training personnel.
AEO and RA/KC Program Coordination
The second document addresses alignment between customs and aviation security certification programs. While both aim to secure supply chains through operator vetting, differing standards and administration have created redundancies. The guidelines propose:
- Harmonizing certification standards to reduce compliance burdens
- Streamlining application processes
- Conducting joint audits
- Creating information-sharing platforms
- Exploring joint certification options
Implementation and Industry Impact
Successful adoption requires stakeholder engagement through awareness campaigns, training programs, and communication mechanisms. Authorities should regularly evaluate implementation and incorporate technological solutions like AI and blockchain.
The new measures may initially increase operational costs and transit times for air carriers. However, improved security could enhance industry reputation and attract more business. For global trade, these standards promise more secure supply chains while supporting economic growth through efficient cargo movement.
These guidelines mark a significant step in aviation security, offering a framework to balance safety requirements with trade facilitation needs. Their successful implementation will depend on continued international cooperation and stakeholder engagement across the air cargo ecosystem.