Transport & Logistics

Aviation cargo security compliance

How to become a Known Consignor or Regulated Agent for air cargo. Covers CAA certification, security vetting requirements, cargo screening, and dangerous goods training.

UK-wide
Guide summary

You must follow aviation security rules if you ship or handle air cargo. You can apply to be a Known Consignor or Regulated Agent to avoid extra checks. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will check your security procedures and train your staff.

  • Apply for Known Consignor status if you ship your own cargo
  • Apply for Regulated Agent status if you handle cargo for others
  • Annual CAA audit required for Known Consignor status
  • Complete Counter Terrorism Checks for key staff
  • Train X-ray staff every 13 months (DNXCT test)
  • Use approved methods to screen cargo before shipping
  • Renew dangerous goods training every 24 months
  • Known Consignor status lasts 12 months (18 months max)
  • Regulated Agent status lasts up to 5 years
  • Notify CAA within 7 days of any changes
On this page
UK-wide

Related guides in Authorised Economic Operator

If you ship cargo by air or handle air freight, you need to understand aviation security requirements. Businesses can gain Known Consignor or Regulated Agent status to streamline cargo acceptance.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) oversees aviation security compliance in the UK.

Known Consignor status

For businesses that originate their own cargo for air transport.

Is Known Consignor status right for you?

Yes, if:

  • You regularly ship your own products by air
  • You can secure your cargo from production/packing to handover
  • You have staff available for security training
  • You can maintain security records and procedures

Benefits:

  • Cargo accepted without additional screening
  • Faster processing through supply chain
  • Listed on UK Database on Supply Chain Security

Regulated Agent status

For freight forwarders and cargo handlers.

Regulated Agent application process

  1. Verify you handle cargo for civil aircraft from UK aerodromes
  2. Complete form ASC6001
  3. Prepare comprehensive security programme document
  4. Submit application package via Egress
  5. Complete background checks for relevant staff
  6. Provide aviation security training to all staff
  7. Implement secure facility with access controls
  8. Pass CAA site assessment

Timeline: See processing times in the requirements above.

Security vetting requirements

Key personnel require Counter Terrorism Checks.

Staff vetting process

  1. Verify eligibility (21+, UK residency)
  2. Complete Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS)
  3. Submit security questionnaire
  4. Undergo criminal records check
  5. Obtain Criminal Record Certificates for any country of residence (6+ months in last 5 years)

Plan ahead: CTC clearance can take several weeks.

Cargo screening

Approved methods for screening air cargo.

Screener certification

If your staff operate X-ray or EDS equipment:

  • Must pass Digital National X-Ray Competency Test (DNXCT)
  • Recertification required at least every 13 months
  • Keep training records up to date

ETD operators: Must achieve at least 80% on CAA exam for dangerous goods training.

Dangerous goods by air

Special requirements for shipping dangerous goods.

Dangerous goods compliance

Before shipping dangerous goods:

  1. Ensure all staff have current IATA DGR training (see validity period above)
  2. Classify goods correctly using IATA DGR
  3. Verify goods are not forbidden for air carriage
  4. Use UN certified packaging (unless limited quantities exemption)
  5. Mark and label packages correctly
  6. Complete IATA Shipper's Declaration

Note: Check the current IATA DGR edition above.

AEO equivalence

Aviation security status can count towards Authorised Economic Operator requirements.

Benefits of equivalence

If you hold Regulated Agent or Known Consignor status:

  • Deemed to meet AEO security and safety criteria for the same premises
  • Can benefit from AEO customs simplifications
  • Reduced duplication of security assessments