Aviation security has experienced a profound transformation over the last two decades. The hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 in 1999 and the tragic events of September 11, 2001, were pivotal moments that forced a complete overhaul of safety protocols in the aviation world.
In the wake of these events, organizations like the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) in India and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) globally made sweeping changes to make hijacking either impossible or, at the very least, extremely difficult.
Today, hijacking an aircraft is far more challenging than it once was. This article delves into the major reforms that followed IC 814 and 9/11, examining how these measures have contributed to making air travel significantly safer.
Post-IC 814: Immediate Reforms
On December 24, 1999, Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 was hijacked while flying from Kathmandu to Delhi. The plane was forced to land in Kandahar, Afghanistan, where the hijackers demanded the release of imprisoned militants.
The ordeal lasted seven grueling days, ending in the release of three terrorists in exchange for the hostages. This incident exposed serious weaknesses in airport and in-flight security in India.
1. Key Reforms Introduced By BCAS
In response to the IC 814 hijacking, BCAS implemented several critical reforms:
- Stricter Access Control at Airports: BCAS introduced more rigorous screening processes for both passengers and luggage. Airport access became more restricted, with identification badges and biometric systems helping to prevent unauthorized entry into secure zones.
- Sky Marshal Program: India introduced sky marshals—plainclothes officers placed on flights to respond to hijacking threats. These trained personnel are equipped to neutralize hijackers with minimal risk to other passengers.
- Passenger Profiling and Enhanced Screening: In addition to routine security checks, passengers were now screened more thoroughly based on behavior, travel history, and risk factors. Sophisticated X-ray machines and metal detectors also became standard tools in this effort.
- Cockpit Door Reinforcements: Though this change gained global attention after 9/11, the IC 814 hijacking highlighted the need for stronger cockpit security. Reinforced cockpit doors were quickly adopted in India to prevent unauthorized access.
- Improved Coordination and Communication Protocols: BCAS enhanced collaboration between law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, and airlines. Regular drills were established to ensure fast, coordinated responses to potential hijacking attempts.
2. 9/11: Global Aviation Security Overhaul
The terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, in which four U.S. airplanes were hijacked and used as weapons, killing nearly 3,000 people, led to a global rethinking of aviation security. Organizations like ICAO and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) introduced sweeping, multi-layered reforms aimed at preventing future hijackings.
Key Changes Brought About By ICAO
- Fortified Cockpit Security: One of the immediate changes after 9/11 was the requirement for reinforced cockpit doors. These doors are now bulletproof, locked throughout the flight, and can only be accessed with the pilot’s approval, significantly reducing the likelihood of hijackers taking control.
- Standardized Security Checkpoints: ICAO recommended uniform procedures for airport security worldwide, including mandatory screening of passengers and luggage. To bolster security, advanced technologies such as full-body scanners and explosive detection systems were introduced.
- No-Fly List Implementation: To prevent suspected terrorists from boarding flights, a comprehensive no-fly list was introduced globally. This system, adopted by airports and airlines worldwide, helps ensure individuals flagged as security risks are unable to fly.
- Passenger Data Sharing: Countries now share Passenger Name Records (PNR) to monitor individuals who might pose a security threat. This allows authorities to track suspicious activity, such as frequent international travel by known terrorist affiliates.
- In-Flight Security Measures: The U.S. expanded its Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS), placing undercover, armed officers on select flights to neutralize potential hijackers. Crew members are also trained in hijacking response strategies to work with air traffic controllers in crisis situations.
- Behavior Detection Programs: Airports introduced behavior detection programs to identify suspicious passengers. Trained security personnel observe non-verbal cues like body language and facial expressions to detect potential threats.
3. Technological Advancements In Aviation Security
Post-9/11, technology has played a pivotal role in detecting and deterring security threats. Advanced imaging systems, AI-driven algorithms, and remote monitoring have greatly enhanced aviation security.
- Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT): Full-body scanners using millimeter-wave or backscatter X-ray technology can detect items hidden under clothing that traditional metal detectors might miss, adding a vital layer of security.
- Biometric Screening: Technologies like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning have been adopted at airports to ensure that only authorized personnel and passengers access secure areas.
- AI and Predictive Analytics: AI systems analyze vast amounts of passenger data, including travel history and payment methods, to flag high-risk individuals for further scrutiny.
- Remote Hijacking Detection Systems: Systems like the Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS) allow ground controllers to monitor aircraft. In the event of a hijacking, onboard controls can be disabled remotely.
4. Passenger & Crew Training
Technology alone isn’t enough to ensure safety. Human awareness and preparedness are essential components of aviation security.
- Crew Training: Cabin crew and pilots are trained extensively in hijack prevention and crisis management. This includes handling unruly passengers, coordinating with law enforcement, and communicating effectively during emergencies.
- Passenger Awareness: Post-9/11, passengers are more alert and willing to intervene in potential hijacking situations. Pre-flight briefings now include information on responding to such threats.
5. ICAO’s Global Standardization
ICAO’s role in setting global security standards became even more crucial after 9/11. The organization introduced Annex 17 to the Chicago Convention, which focuses on security risk management and the harmonization of security practices worldwide.
- Security Management Systems (SeMS): ICAO encourages its member states to implement comprehensive systems for monitoring and improving aviation security measures.
- International Cooperation: Through intelligence sharing and joint exercises, ICAO helps countries collaborate on aviation security, ensuring a coordinated global response to threats.
6. Post-Pandemic Changes and Future Trends
The COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges to aviation security, leading to further digitization and reliance on contactless screening and AI technology.
Future Trends in Aviation Security
- Biometric Airports: Biometric technology is expected to play a bigger role, allowing fully automated, contactless airport experiences that enhance both security and convenience.
- Cybersecurity: As more aviation infrastructure moves online, the industry faces growing risks from cyberattacks. ICAO has introduced guidelines to safeguard flight operations, communication systems, and passenger data from potential breaches.
- Drone Threats: The rising use of drones presents new challenges for aviation security. Regulatory bodies are developing counter-drone technologies to mitigate potential threats posed by unmanned aerial systems.
- AI in Threat Detection: AI-driven threat detection, behavioral analysis, and automated screening are likely to become even more integral to preventing hijackings and other threats.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead For Aviation Security
In the years since IC 814 and 9/11, aviation has become one of the most secure industries in the world. Reinforced cockpit doors, biometric screening, and advanced security protocols have made hijacking nearly impossible.
Organizations like BCAS and ICAO continue to lead efforts in developing and maintaining a multi-layered security framework that ensures the safety of passengers and crew alike. While new threats such as cyberattacks and drone-related incidents emerge, ongoing innovation and international cooperation remain key to adapting aviation security for the future.
The painful lessons from IC 814 and 9/11 serve as powerful reminders of the vulnerabilities within the aviation system. However, the advancements made in their aftermath have transformed the industry, bringing us closer to achieving the goal of a truly hijack-proof aviation environment.
With continuous vigilance, evolving technology, and robust global partnerships, the skies will continue to grow safer for everyone.
- Group Capt MJ Augustine Vinod VSM (retd) is COO, AutoMicroUAS. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the EurAsian Times’ views.
- He tweets at @mjavinod
