In today’s global environment, the focus on airport security remains one of the top priorities for airport operators, who must constantly adapt security measures to address current risks effectively.
By advocating for risk-based security measures and enhanced screening processes, airports are working to strengthen their resilience to respond to complex security threats while providing a streamlined passenger experience.
To help airports optimize security measures, ACI World provides members with tools and expertise through dedicated security initiatives, onsite security assessments, resources, and training programs that outline best practices and ensure compliance with international regulations.
Advocating on behalf of airports
ACI World Security Experts provide:
Areas of expertise covered
ACI World Security Standing Committee
The ACI World Security Standing Committee actively monitors global security developments, develops positions, shares threat-related information and best practices with members.
The Committee works closely with international partners, including International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA), to ensure security standards and guidelines contribute to enhanced airport security measures and reflect the interests of airports worldwide.
How we support the industry
Smart Security
Smart security is the leader in driving security innovation for passenger and baggage screening. Smart security’s goal is to strengthen security, while providing a seamless passenger journey, increased efficiency and reduced operational costs.
Cybersecurity
The aviation sector faces a rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape, demanding robust and resilient cybersecurity measures. Through advocacy and dedicated programs, ACI World supports airports with training, tools, and guidance to mitigate risks, respond to threats, and strengthen cyber resilience.
Counter Drones Knowledge Centre
The Counter Drone Knowledge Centre collects recent publicly available guidance material, regulations, white papers and policies on the topic of drone risk mitigation from around the world and is intended to provide airports and the public with a global “one stop shop” reference.
Key Security Resources
APEX in Security
ACI's flagship Airport Excellence (APEX) program supports airports in optimizing operations and elevating aviation standards through collaborative peer assessment. The program consists of on-site reviews led by industry peers and experts, and is based on ICAO standards, international regulations, and ACI best practices globally.
Security review areas include:
- Organization
- Facilities
- People
- Procedures
- Quality management
Airport Security Diploma
The ACI Airport Security Diploma provides participants with a broad and detailed understanding of implementing and maintaining a security framework that complies with national and international regulations and airport industry best practices.
Learn more about all Security courses.
Airport Security Publications
Explore ACI World publications to access expert handbooks, in-depth reports and datasets, as well as comprehensive guidance. Empower your airport with global insights across all areas of the airport business, including economics, sustainability, customer experience, and operations.
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One-Stop Security (OSS) Toolkit 2026 -
Security Management Systems (SeMS) Handbook -
Building a Resilient Aviation Workforce
Additional Resources on Airport Security
ACI World Insights
Access the latest expert opinions, global tends and data-driven insights on the ACI World Insights blog. Stay informed to make strategic decisions that drive innovation in the airport and wider aviation sector.
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One-Stop Security in Practice: ACI World’s Toolkit for AirportsWith the first introduction of ICAO aviation security Standards in 2005, States and industry groups have been discussing One-Stop Security (OSS) and its potential to improve aviation security and facilitation globally. As international traffic continues to grow, the industry needs security provisions that are robust while avoiding unnecessary duplication for transfer passengers and baggage. Repeated screening at transfer points consume additional resources without necessarily adding security value when equivalent measures have already been applied at the point of departure. It drives longer connection times, increases system loads for transfer baggage, and requires airports to dedicate extra space, staff, and equipment to re-screening. This capacity could be used to focus on higher-risk activities and improve overall performance....Read more -
ACI World collaborates with the European Civil Aviation Conference“Collaboration allows us to go further, faster.” – Simon Sinek ACI World has forged a transformative partnership with the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC), achieving a significant milestone in advancing global airport security standards. Who is ECAC? Founded in 1955 as an intergovernmental organization, the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) seeks to harmonize civil aviation policies and practices among its Member States while fostering global cooperation on aviation policy matters. With 69 years of experience, ECAC has played a pivotal role in inter-governmental collaboration, addressing the evolving needs of the air transport industry across Europe. Its broad membership and expertise allow it to respond effectively to...Read more
