Brisbane Airport said it has become the first airport in the world to complete a security assessment under a new global program developed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). IATA is the global trade association for airlines, representing over 350 airlines and 80% of total air traffic. Its Security Management Systems (SeMS) certification process follows an on-site visit to the airport in June, and a full audit of Brisbane Airport’s approach to aviation security.
The SeMS framework provides a structured approach to managing aviation security risks through proactive governance, continuous improvement, and industry best practices. The review focused on six core components: Corporate Governance, Resource Management, Threat and Risk Management, Quality Assurance and Control, Emergency and Incident Management, and Security Documentation.
Brisbane Airport was certified at the highest level of entry and was commended for:
- Executive Leadership Engagement – Security is embedded in strategic decision-making and operational processes, supported by senior leadership.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration – Robust cooperation across business units ensures a unified approach to risk and incident management.
- Innovation and Continuous Improvement – Evidence of forward-thinking initiatives and ongoing development of security processes and procedures.
- Alignment with Global Standards – Practices and external engagement reflect alignment with IATA’s SeMS Manual principles.
“At Brisbane Airport, safety and security go hand in hand,” according to CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff. “Being the first airport in the world to undergo this assessment reflects our commitment to leading the way in aviation security and delivering a safe, trusted experience for the 24 million passengers who travel through our airport every year. As Australia’s third busiest airport, and a rapidly growing destination ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it was important for us to benchmark ourselves against the highest international standards.”
Brisbane Airport’s Head of Security & Emergency Management, Stephen Leah, accepted the airport’s certification at a ceremony at IATA headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
Sheldon Hee, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Asia-Pacific added, “SeMS is key to transforming global aviation security from a compliance mentality to one that is proactive in identifying and mitigating security risks and driving continuous improvements. This is a major transition that must involve the entire sector and we commend Brisbane Airport in leading the way by undertaking this rigorous assessment.”
Brisbane Airport is Australia’s most connected domestic airport, and has 34 direct international destinations. It is currently undergoing a $5 billion Future BNE transformation, which includes security screening upgrades at both terminals.
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