The session titled “One Supply Chain, Many Stakeholders: Modernizing Air Cargo and Mail Security,” held during ICAO Security Week, focused on emerging challenges in air cargo transportation and the development of mechanisms to safeguard the entire logistics chain. Discussions addressed ways to improve screening effectiveness, introduce advanced technologies, and strengthen coordination among all stakeholders involved in the transportation process, from shippers and freight forwarders to ground handling service providers and airlines.

Sergio Martes Representative of Italy on the Council of ICAO, highlighted the growing importance of air cargo security amid the rapid expansion of e-commerce and the increasing complexity of international supply chains.

“Modern technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and automated detection systems, offer new opportunities to improve screening procedures and enhance security. At the same time, oversight should focus not only on formal compliance with requirements but also on risk assessment and achieving tangible results,” he noted.

The discussion also brought together Nick Lawrence-Taylor, Senior Manager Cargo Security, IATA, Francesco Faiulo, Policy Officer, Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport, European Commission, Ainura Mussylmankulova, Acting VP-Head of Aviation Security Department, Air Astana, Vladimir Zhitnik, Director, Ground Handling and Cargo Operations Complex, SCAT airlines, Carlos Grau Tanner, Director General, Global Express Association.

Carlos Grau Tanner emphasized that different stakeholders are involved at every stage of the supply chain and that the actions of each participant directly affect the security of the entire logistics process.

One of the key topics was the use of innovative solutions, including artificial intelligence and automated detection technologies, to improve screening effectiveness and enable the timely identification of potential threats. Participants also explored the transition towards risk-based oversight, which would allow for more efficient allocation of resources while maintaining security throughout all stages of transportation.

Particular attention was also given to the distribution of responsibilities among supply chain stakeholders. Harmonized procedures, timely information sharing, and consistent approaches to security controls play a crucial role in ensuring the security of air cargo and mail shipments while maintaining the speed and efficiency of delivery.

At the conclusion of the session, IATA delivered a presentation on the CSD/e-CSD initiative, aimed at facilitating secure and efficient information exchange among supply chain stakeholders and improving mechanisms for verifying the security status of cargo shipments.

The discussion reaffirmed that strengthening air cargo security requires a comprehensive approach that combines advanced technologies, effective oversight, and close cooperation between government authorities and aviation industry stakeholders.