Frequently asked questions about Air Freight Security
What does air cargo security encompass?
Air cargo security encompasses all measures designed to protect against attacks on aviation security. These include, among other things, procedures to prevent acts of sabotage, tampering, or other security-related incidents within the supply chain.
What is a known consignor?
A known consignor is an entity approved by the relevant authority that first introduces air cargo into the secure supply chain. Its operating procedures must comply with applicable security regulations. This approval allows for the introduction of secure air cargo into the secure supply chain without further security checks, provided that all regulatory requirements are met.
What are the benefits of a Regulated Agent?
A Regulated Agent performs key functions within the secure supply chain. These include documented security processes, controlled operational procedures, and compliance with statutory aviation security requirements. For companies, this means greater security, process stability, and regulatory compliance.
What screening methods are approved for air cargo?
Depending on the type of shipment, different screening methods are used. These include X-ray screening, explosive trace detectors (ETD), explosive detection dogs, as well as visual and manual inspections. The method best suited to the specific type of cargo is always the determining factor.
How does DACHSER support the development of secure supply chains?
DACHSER advises companies on implementing regulatory requirements, optimising security processes, and managing certification and audit projects. This enables the sustainable establishment of secure and legally compliant supply chains.
When are security checks required for air freight shipments?
Security checks are required if the security status of an air freight shipment cannot be verified through the secure supply chain or if legal requirements mandate a check. The goal is to ensure that the shipment poses no threat to aviation security.
What is the significance of RA3 and KC3 certifications for international supply chains?
RA3 (Regulated Agent Third Country) and KC3 (Known Consignor Third Country) are security approvals recognised by the European Union for companies in third countries outside the EU. They serve to ensure the security of air cargo shipments transported from non-EU countries into the European Union.
A KC3 is a shipper who prepares their air cargo in accordance with established security standards and introduces it into the supply chain as secure cargo.
An RA3 assumes responsibility for the further security, inspection, and processing of shipments prior to transport into the EU. For internationally active companies and logistics service providers, RA3 and KC3 approvals offer significant advantages: They enable more efficient processing of air cargo shipments, reduce the need for additional security checks upon import into the EU, and support compliance with international aviation security requirements.