Global Efforts To Reinforce Security and Resilience of Airmail Operations

The safety and security of airmail are critically important for the aviation industry, not only because of the commercial value of goods transported but also due to broader implications for aviation safety, trust, and global trade.

Undoubtedly, the global security environment is becoming more challenging and complex. Over the last 12 months, the global threat picture has evolved considerably, as sophisticated actors are seen seeking to sabotage the air cargo and mail supply chains using improvised incendiary devices (IIDs), in addition to the longstanding risk posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Industry analysts say unchecked or improperly screened airmail could be exploited to smuggle hazardous materials, explosives, or other dangerous goods, directly threatening passenger and crew safety.

Past incidents — like attempts to ship explosives hidden in cargo or parcels — have shown how aviation can be targeted through the mail system.

About 320.4bn letters and post items are sent every year globally, according to estimates by International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The aviation industry also accounts for billions of postal parcels - for example IATA mentions 7.4bn postal parcels annually. The total global air freight volumes are on the order of 55mn-70mn metric tonnes per year.

For example, in 2021, about 65.6mn metric tonnes of air freight was transported worldwide.

An industry estimate shows that airmail globally (letters plus postal parcels actually transported by air) is likely in the order of some millions of metric tonnes per year — up to 15mn tonnes annually!

Recently, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and Universal Postal Union (UPU) have joined hands to reinforce the security of international air cargo and mail.

This marks a new milestone in global efforts, bringing together the two areas of expertise to confront evolving threats and enhance the security and resilience of global airmail operations.

ICAO and UPU outlined a shared vision for enhanced co-operation between the two international agencies, including efforts aimed at further aligning their respective security frameworks.

This co-operation promotes policies that encourage innovation in screening technologies, improved personnel training, and better information sharing between postal and aviation authorities.

As global e-commerce continues to expand and grow, the security of international mail security has become increasingly critical.

ICAO and UPU have strongly recommended the adoption of cutting-edge technologies – such as advanced X-ray systems and explosive detection equipment – within postal and cargo operations to improve both security and operational efficiency.

"This partnership represents a unified, proactive approach to current and future challenges in air cargo and mail security," said ICAO Secretary-General Juan Carlos Salazar. "A secure airmail system is a shared responsibility. This partnership ensures airmail services remain secure, resilient, and efficient."

The initiative builds on a longstanding collaboration between ICAO and UPU and significantly strengthens their respective oversight capabilities.

ICAO's Universal Security Audit Programme and UPU's certification framework together will ensure consistent security standards across all member States.

Both ICAO and UPU said they are committed to supporting their respective members and postal operators in adopting practical and risk-based measures, benefiting from enhanced information sharing, as well as enhanced visibility and transmission of data, to protect the integrity of the global mail and cargo supply chain.

Currently, the ICAO and IATA regulations require strict screening and monitoring of mail shipments. Airlines and postal operators must comply with these rules to maintain licenses and operating rights.

Airlines, postal services, and express couriers rely on customer confidence. A single breach of airmail security can damage reputations and erode trust in the system.

For governments, secure airmail is also tied to national security and counter-terrorism.

Clearly, strong security measures — like digital tracking, advanced screening, and secure facilities — help airlines and postal operators minimise delays and avoid costly disruptions.

Obviously, the safe and secure transport of airmail and parcels is vital to global economy in general and aviation industry in particular. Millions of letters, documents, and parcels move by air every day, many of them time-sensitive or high-value.

Therefore, ensuring their safe carriage is essential for aviation safety, global trade and commerce and regulatory compliance.