Through “Cooperative actions to assist Members to achieve effective aviation security outcomes and sustainable implementation”, CASP-AP connects 23 Member States in the Asia Pacific region. As aviation takes steps to restart in earnest – the role of aviation security personnel will be in the spotlight. Having the right people, with the right skills, in the right place is even more difficult than pre-COVID and is complicated by the many professionals who have left their security roles or have been redeployed.
Since 2005, CASP-AP has been ever-present in the region to help States comply with ICAO SARPs and provide a Civil Aviation Standing Structure for AVSEC information exchange, technical assistance, cooperation and coordination and training of security personnel. Since 2012, CASP-AP has trained 1,357 security personnel in the region during 80 workshops/courses/seminars. CASP-AP continues to refine and update its template security programmes, provide tailored regional/country-specific training packages and source subject matter experts to work with CASP-AP and the Member States to meet State security obligations.
2020 and 2021 have been difficult for all in the industry. CASP-AP was no exception. Travel restrictions and the need for employing a new Programme Coordinator | Senior Aviation Security Advisor (PC-SASA) hindered the delivery of CASP-AP during those years. Despite this, CASP-AP adapted many training packages so they can be delivered virtually. They hope, in the near future, to provide “hybrid training” to allow some participants to attend in person with others via zoom or other means. CASP-AP’s aim hasn’t changed, to be on the ground, getting details, providing hands-on assistance.
2022 offers new possibilities to CASP-AP Members as the new PC settles into the role. Tony Blackiston brings extensive knowledge and experience from within the region and outside. His aim is to continue running the programme similarly to the past – leveraging the opportunities and encouraging cooperation and collaboration within the CASP-AP membership.
CASP-AP will continue to listen to Member States. Many Members and Partners have been contacted to ensure the vision of CASP-AP is maintained and future activities are relevant, sustainable and delivered in a timely manner. In this regard, a zoom meeting was held with Indonesia in December 2021. Meaningful and outcome-focused coordination and partnerships with ICAO’s HQ and Regional Office staff, aviation associations, donor States and the regional AVSEC training network will continue.
CASP-AP is pleased to report that we plan a pilot delivery of a new workshop, Insider Risk Workshop with ISD-SEC, ICAO HQ in 2022. CASP-AP is working with ICAO HQ to develop training packages and guidance for Cybersecurity Awareness and Facilitation.
Cmailto:llee@icao.intASP-AP will update the actual training and assistance package dates once approved at the Interim SCM on 3 February 2022. In the meantime, please contact CASP-AP by sending an email to Mr Tony Blackiston or Ms Lita Lee.