Aviation Security & Facilitation
Our AVSEC Mission
The JCAA is on a mission to ensure that the aviation world is a safe and secure space for all. We do it by:
Setting Security Standards: We craft regulations and security programmes and standards that define excellence.
Empowering Through Knowledge: Our seminars and training sessions keep the industry informed and compliant.
Eyes Everywhere: Through audits and inspections, we ensure everyone plays by the rules.
Responsive and Adaptive: We assist in evolving our regulations to meet emerging threats and keep you safe.
Partnering for Safety: We create a unified front against risks through collaboration with aviation stakeholders
Keeping Informed
Security is a shared responsibility. Help us stay ahead of the curve by reporting concerns and keeping up-to-date on the latest in aviation security.
Strengthening Aviation Security Post-9/11
The global aviation landscape was irrevocably changed by the events of September 11, 2001. In response to these changes, the JCAA significantly enhanced its security measures, which included implementing robust local security regulations and fortifying the Aviation Security (AVSEC) Unit within the Flight Safety Department.
Since 2004, the AVSEC Unit has been tasked with overseeing aviation security across Jamaica’s aviation industry. Our primary goals are to protect the industry, Jamaica, and our international partners from acts of unlawful interference. As a member state of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Jamaica adheres to the Standards and Recommended Practices outlined in ICAO Annex 9 - Facilitation and Annex 17- Aviation Security, which are incorporated into our Civil Aviation Regulations.
Key Responsibilities
The AVSEC Unit is responsible for a wide range of critical security tasks. These include:
Certification and Oversight
Security Providers: We certify contracted security providers, handling agents, aviation security screeners, and national AVSEC instructors.
Manual Approvals: We approve security manuals for air operators, aerodrome operators, contracted security providers, and handling agents to ensure compliance with regulations.
Training and Education
Security Training: We deliver specialized aviation security training, covering topics such as Passenger Interdiction, Risk Management, Crisis Management, Cargo Security, Insider Threats, and Instructor Certification.
Security Seminars: We conduct security seminars for domestic air operators to enhance security awareness and screening protocols.
Implementation and Monitoring
Security Directives: We implement security directives, including the introduction of passenger screening at both domestic and international aerodromes.
Coordination of Security Exercises: We coordinate and monitor security exercises, such as the State’s Table Top Security exercise at Norman Manley International Airport and full-scale airport security exercises.
Achievements and Milestones
The AVSEC Unit has made significant strides in enhancing aviation security. Key achievements include:
Certification of Security Providers: Establishing rigorous certification processes for security providers and aviation security personnel.
Comprehensive Training Programmes: The AVSEC unit delivers extensive training programmes to improve security practices across the aviation sector.
Security Awareness Initiatives: Seminars and workshops are conducted to raise security awareness among aviation stakeholders.
Implementation of Screening Procedures: Introducing comprehensive passenger screening protocols to enhance safety at airports.
Coordination of Security Exercises: Successfully coordinating and monitoring security exercises to ensure preparedness and resilience.
Stay Informed and Connected
For more information on aviation security regulations, training programmes, and certification processes, visit our website or connect with us on social media.
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