What New ICAO Global Security Standards Mean for Your Next Flight

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is implementing new global aviation security standards. These updates focus on modernizing airport security and protecting digital infrastructure. The changes are driven by an evolving global threat picture. This includes increased geopolitical tensions and cyber-attacks. ICAO's goal is to maintain a strong global security framework for all member states.

This regulatory push is guided by the Second Edition of the Global Aviation Security Plan (GASeP). The ICAO Council approved this updated plan in June 2024. GASeP helps states prioritize activities to improve security implementation. It uses milestones to track global progress toward its aspirational goal. The plan emphasizes a risk-based approach to security measures.

Enhanced Screening Technologies

A key focus of the new security standards is improving the passenger experience. ICAO encourages the adoption of enhanced screening technologies. These technological improvements do not always require a change in ICAO Standards. However, they are strongly promoted as best practices.

New cabin baggage screening equipment is a priority. This technology allows travelers to keep laptops and other electronics in their bags. Future improvements aim to screen liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGS) without removal. This change will significantly streamline passenger screening technology at checkpoints. Such advancements help reduce wait times. They also improve the overall efficiency of airport security protocols.

Strengthening Aviation Cybersecurity

Protecting the digital backbone of air travel is now critical. Cyber-attacks against airlines and airports have sharply increased. These attacks often aim to disrupt operations or involve criminal ransomware.

ICAO has responded with updates to key regulatory Annexes. In April 2025, the ICAO Council adopted new standards for aviation communication. These new, more cyber-resilient standards apply to air-ground data exchange. They facilitate a move to digital infrastructure. This ensures the security and reliability of vital aviation communications. The goal is a stronger foundation for information sharing. This includes data between aircraft and Air Traffic Control (ATC).

Impact on Digital Infrastructure

• New standards promote cyber-resilient air-ground data exchange.
• They encourage a cost-effective transition to digital systems.
• The updates strengthen existing infrastructure against modern threats.

Implementation and Industry Challenges

Implementing the ICAO global aviation security standards is a complex task. ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) are contained in Annex 17—Aviation Security. States must adopt these SARPs into their national laws. The Universal Security Audit Programme-Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) tracks state compliance.

As of September 2025, only 46% of States globally are reaching or surpassing 75% effective implementation (EI). This highlights a major challenge for the International Civil Aviation Organization. The industry must focus on capacity building and training.

Airlines and airports face significant investment costs. New screening equipment requires substantial capital expenditure. Furthermore, developing robust aviation cybersecurity measures demands specialized expertise. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) supports the modernization effort. However, they emphasize the need for harmonized global rules. This prevents administrative burdens for international carriers.

States must also focus on threat mitigation strategies. This includes addressing insider threats and unruly passengers. A robust security culture is a necessary component of a strong security environment. The new GASeP and related standards represent a major step forward. They aim to ensure civil aviation safety keeps pace with technological change and new threats.

For global airline trends and commercial aviation news, turn to flying.flights.