A three-part aviation security review of security governance, the written security program and physical security at key operational sites gave an international airline in the Asia-Pacific region a clear baseline and prioritised plan for improvement.

THE CHALLENGE

An international airline in the Asia-Pacific region operates a complex footprint that includes passenger and cargo operations, a large engineering complex, administrative headquarters, flight management facilities and a primary data centre housing critical IT systems. In preparation for evolving international aviation security standards under ICAO Annex 17, the airline sought an independent, end-to-end review of its security arrangements. Its security program was fragmented, with two separate security manuals in operation, and the national aviation regulator had required changes to the program’s format. Internally, the airline needed to understand how effective its security governance was, how well its critical ground facilities were physically protected, and whether its documented procedures fully met the requirements of the national civil aviation security program. It wanted a transparent, professional assessment that executive leadership could act on.

OUR APPROACH

Agilient partnered with a specialist aviation security firm to deliver a three-part review. The project team included senior consultants with extensive experience leading security for major international airlines. First, the team reviewed the airline’s corporate security function, interviewing senior executives and staff across the major operating units to evaluate governance, reporting lines, audit mechanisms and training. Second, Agilient reviewed the airline’s written security program against the national civil aviation regulations and the national civil aviation security program, identifying where changes were needed for full compliance. Third, consultants carried out physical security reviews of key operational sites, including airport operations, the cargo facility, the engineering complex and the primary data centre. These reviews examined physical and technical protection measures and operational security processes, and identified specific vulnerabilities at each critical facility. The findings from all three parts were brought together in a single report for executive leadership, with recommendations and a prioritised implementation plan.

THE OUTCOME

Executive leadership received a concise, independent assessment of the airline’s corporate and aviation security posture.

Related services: security audit services, physical security consultant, protective security and PSPF consulting. Sector experience: aviation security consultant and critical infrastructure security consultant. To discuss a similar project, contact Agilient.