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About Aviation Security

In 2022, 3.8 billion passengers traveled by air (Statista) globally, of which 820 million in the 27 EU Member States.  Every one of them will have gone through the security controls that are mandatory by EU legislation, as well as their hold and cabin baggage.

Since 2002, in the aftermath of 9/11, common EU aviation security rules have been established and harmonisation has been strengthened ever since. The evolving threats on aviation have been the driver to reinforce security measures and allow new technologies and procedures to be introduced. 

Common basic standards at the EU level cover:

• screening of passengers, cabin baggage and hold baggage;
• airport security, including access control and surveillance;
• aircraft security checks and searches;
• screening of cargo and mail;
• screening of airport supplies;
• staff recruitment and training.

Since 2009, several supplementary regulations entered into force to address:

• liquids, aerosols and gels;
• the use of security scanners;
• the adoption of alternative security measures;
• the controls of air cargo domestically and internationally;
• the specifications of national quality control programmes;
• the procedures for conducting Commission inspections in the field of aviation security.

Private security services providers are key stakeholders in ensuring high quality and reliable security services in European airports.