Newly formed Global Air Cargo Advisory Group
20 / 12 / 2010
SECURITY and safety have always been and continue to be of paramount importance to the members of the newly formed Global Air Cargo Advisory Group ‘GACAG’ (TIACA, IATA, FIATA and GSF). The air cargo industry has a good track record in this regard, but recent events have raised the importance of security protocols, especially risk assessment. GACAG recognises the global challenge to an air cargo industry that operates at the heart of world trade and is a recognised driver of economic development in both the developed and developing world.
The group will focus its efforts to enhance the security of the air cargo supply chain, defined as all components of the transportation chain from shipper to consignee, but this must be done in a manner that results in the minimum possible disruption to the vital flow of commerce. This will require a global push by the air cargo industry and the relevant authorities to improve risk assessment, tighten standard air cargo supply chain processes, develop viable technology for the air cargo environment, and improve compliance. GACAG supports the following principles:
A comprehensive Air Cargo Supply Chain Security solution should be built around a multi-layered set of actions guided by the ‘risk-based’ concept;
Consistent with ICAO Annex 17, member states should introduce supply chain security programs established on common principles and platforms, such as those contained within Regulated Agent and Known Consignor programs;
To facilitate integrated supply chain transportation, member states should be encouraged to mutually recognise quality supply chain security programs introduced by partner member states;
Enhanced data intelligence, leveraging standardised electronic advance cargo information and consistent with the WCO Safe Framework of Standards, should underpin secure supply chain solutions to target high-risk cargo;
Cargo security should be viewed on a holistic basis incorporating general cargo, express cargo, mail and baggage shipped as cargo, encompassing both freighter and combination aircraft; and
Because our members operate in all countries and territories around the world, we are acutely aware that global harmonisation of air cargo security procedures is essential, and we urge the best practices be adopted as soon as possible.