1. INTRODUCTION
The Aviation Security Awareness: Cabin/Flight Deck Crew programme is designed in accordance with South African Civil Aviation Regulations and international aviation security standards. It targets airline personnel who play a critical role in maintaining the safety and security of the aircraft, passengers, and crew. Cabin and flight deck crew members are the first line of defence in managing in-flight threats and responding effectively to security-related incidents.
2. PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAMME
The purpose of this programme is to equip cabin and flight deck crew with the necessary awareness, knowledge, and practical understanding of aviation security principles and procedures. The programme ensures that crew members are able to identify and respond appropriately to potential threats while promoting a security-conscious culture onboard an aircraft. It also supports compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
3. LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion of the programme, learners will be able to:
- Understand the legal and regulatory framework governing aviation security.
- Identify various types of acts of unlawful interference and potential threats specific to the flight deck and cabin environment.
- Recognise behavioural indicators of suspicious passengers and high-risk situations.
- Apply appropriate preventative and response measures during security incidents, including hijacking or sabotage attempts.
- Understand the importance of access control to the flight deck and the role of communication and coordination with ground security and law enforcement agencies.
- Promote a proactive and vigilant security culture throughout flight operations.
4. CORE COMPONENTS OF THE PROGRAMME
The programme covers the following key components:
- Overview of Aviation Security Threats: Historical context, emerging threats, and global trends.
- Regulatory Framework: Introduction to ICAO Annex 17, SACAA Part 109, and airline security policies.
- Roles and Responsibilities: Security roles of cabin crew and flight deck crew during normal and emergency operations.
- Access Control Procedures: Securing the flight deck and monitoring access to restricted areas.
- Unlawful Interference: Recognising and responding to hijacking, sabotage, bomb threats, and unruly passengers.
- Security Screening Awareness: Familiarisation with passenger and baggage screening processes.
- Human Factors and Behavioural Detection: Identifying suspicious behaviour and managing stress under duress.
- Incident Response and Communication Protocols: Procedures for reporting and managing security threats onboard.
- Case Studies and Scenario-Based Training: Application of security concepts through real-life and simulated incidents.