Brisbane Airport achieves world-first IATA security certification through proactive risk management and continuous improvement initiatives

Credit: Brisbane Airport (BNE)

Brisbane Airport (BNE) has become the first airport globally to complete a security assessment under the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) new Security Management Systems (SeMS) programme. IATA, representing over 350 airlines and 80% of global air traffic, developed SeMS to provide a structured approach to managing aviation security risks through proactive governance, continuous improvement and industry best practices.

The certification process involved an on-site visit to Brisbane Airport in June and a full audit of its security approach. The review covered six core components: Corporate Governance, Resource Management, Threat and Risk Management, Quality Assurance and Control, Emergency and Incident Management, and Security Documentation.

Brisbane Airport achieved the highest level of entry and was commended for executive leadership engagement, cross-functional collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement, and alignment with global standards. Security is embedded in strategic decision-making and operational processes, supported by senior leadership. The airport’s collaboration across business units ensures a unified approach to risk and incident management, while forward-thinking initiatives strengthen security processes.

“At Brisbane Airport, safety and security go hand in hand,” said 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.”

Stephen Leah, Head of Security & Emergency Management at Brisbane Airport, accepted the certification at a ceremony at IATA headquarters in Geneva.

Sheldon Hee, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Asia-Pacific, stated, “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, with 34 direct international destinations. It is undergoing a $5 billion Future BNE transformation, including security screening upgrades at both terminals.

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