Introduction

In an era of evolving global threats, airport security and crisis response are not merely regulatory obligations but fundamental pillars supporting the entire aviation ecosystem. Airports, as critical infrastructure and symbols of global connectivity, remain prime targets for a wide array of threats, ranging from terrorism and unlawful interference to natural disasters and public health emergencies. The ability to anticipate, prevent, and effectively respond to these incidents is paramount to safeguarding passengers, personnel, and assets, while maintaining public trust and operational continuity. A lapse in security or a poorly managed crisis can have catastrophic consequences, extending far beyond immediate financial losses to include severe reputational damage and long-term operational disruption. This essential training course focuses on equipping aviation professionals with the expertise to fortify Airport Security and Crisis Response capabilities.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to empower airport security managers, operations personnel, emergency responders, airline staff, and regulatory authorities with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to develop, implement, and manage robust airport security programs and comprehensive crisis response plans. Participants will gain a deep understanding of current threat landscapes, international security standards, and best practices for risk assessment and mitigation. The course will delve into topics such as access control, passenger and baggage screening, cybersecurity for airport systems, emergency planning, incident command systems, communication protocols during crises, and post-crisis recovery. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Airport Security and Crisis Response, participants will be prepared to enhance their organization's security posture, ensure rapid and coordinated responses to emergencies, and contribute to a safer and more resilient global aviation network.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Airport Security Managers and Officers
• Airport Operations Managers and Supervisors
• Airline Security Personnel
• Emergency Preparedness Coordinators
• Law Enforcement and First Responders operating at airports
• Regulatory Inspectors and Auditors
• Air Traffic Control Managers
• Aviation Safety Officers
• Crisis Management Team Members
• New entrants to airport security or emergency management roles

Course Objectives

• Understand the current threat landscape for airports and the aviation industry.
• Learn international and national regulatory requirements for airport security.
• Acquire skills in conducting security risk assessments and vulnerability analysis.
• Comprehend various security measures including access control, screening, and perimeter security.
• Explore strategies for cybersecurity of airport operational technology (OT) and IT systems.
• Understand the components of a comprehensive Airport Emergency Plan (AEP).
• Learn about Incident Command Systems (ICS) and their application in airport crises.
• Develop effective crisis communication strategies for internal and external stakeholders.

Course Content

Module 1: Foundations of Aviation Security

• Evolution of aviation security: historical context and key incidents.
• International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 17 and global security standards.
• National aviation security regulations and their implementation.
• Understanding the concept of "unlawful interference" and its prevention.
• The role of various stakeholders in airport security (airlines, regulators, law enforcement).

Module 2: Security Risk Management

• Principles of security risk assessment: identification, analysis, evaluation, and treatment.
• Conducting vulnerability assessments of airport infrastructure and processes.
• Threat identification: terrorism, insider threats, cyber threats, and other criminal acts.
• Developing risk mitigation strategies and controls.
• Integrating risk management into the Airport Security Program (ASP).

Module 3: Physical Security Measures

• Airport perimeter security: fencing, surveillance, and intrusion detection systems.
• Access control systems: badging, biometric identification, and vehicle checkpoints.
• Sterile areas, restricted areas, and Security Identification Display Areas (SIDA).
• Patrols and guarding: effective deployment of security personnel.
• Measures to prevent unauthorized access to aircraft and critical facilities.

Module 4: Passenger and Baggage Security Screening

• Principles of passenger and carry-on baggage screening.
• Technologies used in screening: X-ray, EDS, WTMD, trace detection, body scanners.
• Understanding prohibited items and managing their detection.
• Checked baggage screening processes and systems.
• Managing special categories: VIPs, PRMs, crew, and law enforcement.

Module 5: Airport Cyber Security

• Understanding cybersecurity threats to airport operational technology (OT) and IT systems.
• Protecting critical airport systems: ATC, baggage handling, passenger processing, security systems.
• Common cyberattack vectors: ransomware, phishing, DDoS, insider threats.
• Best practices for network segmentation, data encryption, and access controls in cyber systems.
• Incident response planning for cyber-attacks affecting airport operations.

Module 6: Airport Emergency Planning (AEP)

• Purpose and scope of an Airport Emergency Plan (AEP).
• Regulatory requirements for AEP development and maintenance.
• Components of a comprehensive AEP: Basic Plan, Functional Annexes, Hazard-Specific Annexes.
• Coordination with external agencies: local emergency services, law enforcement, hospitals.
• The importance of regular AEP review, testing, and exercise drills.

Module 7: Crisis Response and Incident Command Systems (ICS)

• Introduction to Incident Command Systems (ICS) for managing emergencies.
• Roles and responsibilities within an ICS structure during airport incidents.
• Activation protocols and communication flow during a crisis.
• Managing various types of emergencies: aircraft accidents, bomb threats, active shooter, natural disasters.
• Post-incident procedures: damage assessment, recovery, and debriefing.

Module 8: Crisis Communication and Post-Crisis Recovery

• Developing effective crisis communication strategies: internal and external.
• Managing media relations during an airport crisis.
• Utilizing social media for information dissemination and public reassurance.
• Psychological support for staff and affected individuals.
• Business continuity and operational recovery after a major incident.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training