In this blog, I aim to give a primer on the leading international agencies involved in civil aviation security. The descriptions provided here are far from comprehensive. Nonetheless, it should help the uninitiated understand the basics. 

ICAO

The International Civil Aviation Organisation is the leading agency overseeing aviation security. Formed in 1944, ICAO’s lineage goes back to the earliest years of aviation. These days ICAO enjoys recognition as a successful United Nations agency. Its headquarters are in Montreal Canada.

Aviation security is one element of ICAO’s remit; they also cover air navigation and safety matters. 

There are 192 ICAO members states. The ICAO discharges it’s functions through an assembly, a council, and various subsidiary bodies. The assembly has representatives from each member state.

ICAO functions through consensus. Nations sign up and agree to abide by standards and recommended practices. These get formulated by mutual consent through conventions attended by member nations. While ICAO has no enforcement powers, it expects countries to apply the rules through domestic legislation. Moreover, states that fail to comply may face sanctions. 

ICAO publishes its standards and recommended practices for aviation security in a document called Annex 17. The Aviation Security Manual or Document 8973 gives specific detail.

ICAO has proven effective as a focal point for aviation security standards, although at times it's the response is slow. The need for consensus across 192 states does not lend itself to prompt action. Thus some aspects of the ICAO regime are outdated. 

The ‘no country left behind’ initiative has seen advanced nations working with emerging nations. This excellent programme has favourable outcomes. ICAO has also shown itself to be effective in setting training standards. It’s developed a body of training material that’s applicable in all nations.

IATA

The International Air Transport Association is a trade body representing 278 airlines. Formed in 1945, its headquartered in Montreal Canada. IATA represents the airlines and sets standards for safety and security issues. It works closely with ICAO, and there is considerable commonality in approach. IATA and ICAO often cross-reference each other. 

IATA also offers training covering all aspects of aviation. 

ECAC

The European Civil Aviation Conference is an adjunct to ICAO formed in 1955. It seeks to harmonise civil aviation procedures across 44 European member states and their neighbours. 

ACI

The Airports Council International is the new boy on the block. It formed in 1991. Currently, it has a membership of 641 operating 1,957 airports in 176 countries and territories. As the name suggests, ACI represents the world’s airports. As a trade body, ACI acts as the point of liaison with governments and international organisations such as ICAO. It helps develop standards, policies and recommended practices for airports.

It also protects airport interests when necessary policy changes are under discussion. These can cover safety, security, airport charges and regulations.

In 2011 ACI moved its headquarters to Montreal Canada given that ICAO and IATA are both located there. 

TSA

It’s worth mentioning the Transportation Safety Agency of the USA. They’re a significant player in aviation security. The TSA formed as a response to the 9/11 attack and is part of the US Department of Homeland Security. Before the formation of the TSA private companies handled aviation security at US airports. Today the TSA employs some 58,000 staff, who manage all aspects of civil aviation security across the USA.  Besides, the TSA has oversight for ports, transit systems and critical infrastructure such as pipelines. 

There are strong links between ICAO and the TSA. The U.S. government provides 25% of ICAO’s budget and funds selected projects. An ambassador represents the TSA at ICAO. 

Summary
To the outsider, the aviation security regime looks somewhat disjointed and convoluted. Yet this evolved system has had success. Its strength is that ICAO is driving a common set of standards across 192 nations, and while slow at times, it is moving forward.