• Cathay Cargo Terminal has become the first ground-handling company in Asia to secure the International Air Transport Association Security Management System certification
• The terminal achieved ‘Operating Status,’ the highest level possible for a first-time SeMS certification
• SeMS ensures continuous improvement in security measures through a risk-based, data-driven approach
• The company has integrated AI for intruder detection and unattended cargo monitoring, alongside significant cybersecurity enhancements
Cathay Cargo Terminal has become the first ground-handling company in Asia to secure the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Security Management System (SeMS) certification, achieving “Operating Status”—the highest level granted to a first-time recipient.
IATA’s SeMS is a structured framework that enables aviation organizations into “proactively managing regulatory compliance, security risks, threats, and vulnerabilities.” Organizations adopting a SeMS approach prioritize the continual enhancement of their security frameworks by leveraging risk-based methodologies and data-driven insights in addressing emerging and evolving threats.
“Security is foundational for any airport cargo terminal, and we are proud to be recognized by IATA for our strong commitment to all areas of security,” said Mark Watts, chief operating officer of Cathay Cargo Terminal, in a statement.
“Our recent use of AI to augment intruder detection and unattended cargo detection, as well as our significant investments in cybersecurity, underscore our proactive approach to keeping our customers’ equipment, cargo, and data safe,” said Watts.
Cathay Cargo Terminal was recognized for demonstrating comprehensive security policies, active leadership involvement, and robust regulatory compliance mechanisms.
The formal certification will be presented at the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Dubai on April 15.
IATA senior vice president for operations, safety, and security Nick Careen commended Cathay Cargo Terminal’s efforts, stating that the certification is a “testament” to its “dedication to proactive and risk-based security management.”
“By embedding SeMS principles into its operations, Cathay Cargo Terminal reinforces and strengthens its overall security framework and also contributes to the broader goal of modernizing aviation security through proactive continuous improvement and industry-wide collaboration. This is not only a significant milestone for Cathay Cargo Terminal, but also another strong milestone for the entire aviation industry, showcasing the importance of robust security measures and collaborative efforts in enhancing global aviation security,” said Careen.
Beyond security, Cathay Cargo Terminal was among the first cargo-handling companies in Asia to earn the IATA Environmental Assessment certification and has recently renewed its Competency-Based Training and Assessment certification for dangerous goods. Additionally, it holds all four IATA Center of Excellence for independent validators certifications for fresh, pharma, live animals, and lithium batteries.
