The UK Department for Transport (DfT) and the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) jointly organised a virtual seminar on security in air cargo on 28 and 29 October 2020.

The main objectives of the seminar were to:

•  review existing risks and mitigation measures in relation to security in air cargo;
•  share information and experience relating to security in air cargo ;
•  share industry practices in managing risks to air cargo, to their operations and to their assets;
•  discuss innovation and new technologies being used in air cargo; and
•  discuss the UK Cargo regime post-Brexit.

Participants had the opportunity to share their experiences on the subject of enhancing air cargo security and were also able to share examples of the latest technology they are using to secure air cargo within their region. The seminar also covered current and future challenges to the cargo sector and the participants were able to exchange views and best practice on threat mitigation.

Moderated and lead by 10 international experts, the seminar brought together 160 participants from 30 States (Arab and African), 3 regional organizations, regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders.

ACAO and DfT agreed their cooperation should be expanded by organising an annual dialogue on aviation security under the umbrella of ACAO and DfT.

ACAO and DfT further agreed to establish a Memorandum of Understanding and a cooperation program for 2021-2022.