AVSEC (Aviation Security) training are specialized programs in airport security, designed to prepare professionals who work in airports to face any threat effectively. These trainings cover key aspects such as access control, baggage inspection, risk management and emergency protocols, all within international aviation security standards.
In this article, we will explain in detail what AVSEC is, who needs it, how it is carried out and what happens if this legal requirement is not met, with the aim that airport professionals understand its real importance.
What is AVSEC training?
AVSEC training is the set of measures, protocols and training aimed at preventing illegal acts, protecting airport facilities, passengers and personnel against threats such as terrorism, sabotage, smuggling or other security risks. It is regulated at the international level by the ICAO (Annex 17) and at the European/Spanish level by AESA, chapter 11 of the National Safety Program (PNS), Air Safety Law 21/2003, and applicable EU regulations.
This is a mandatory and fundamental operational requirement for any professional who works in an airport, especially if their activity requires access to restricted areas (ZRS).
Why do airport professionals need the AVSEC course?
Airport security is a global priority, and all workers, from security officers to operations staff, must be trained to prevent and respond to potential risks.
AVSEC training ensures employees have the knowledge and skills necessary to protect passengers, crew and facilities, maintaining a safe and efficient environment.
Therefore, for any airport professional—whether in the technical, commercial, services or administrative area—having AVSEC is an essential requirement to work with credibility, a barrier against risks that can have serious consequences, and an investment in security, reputation and operational efficiency.
Recommended best practices
- Include AVSEC training as part of the onboarding plan for new employees who will go to restricted areas.
- Maintain updated records of who has current training and when it is renewed (it has to be renewed every 5 years).
- Carry out drills and practical exercises to reinforce what you have learned.
- Use employee feedback to continually improve content (what is poorly understood, what requires more practice).
- Align AVSEC training with other airport security programs and corporate culture.
If you do not yet have AVSEC training or it is close to expiration, we recommend planning it as soon as possible: check your airport, verify instructors accredited by AESA, choose the modality that best suits you and secure your certification to protect both your job and the safety standards of the entire facility.
Keep in mind that many professionals also need AVSAF certification to be able to carry out their work within airports.
Remember that failure to comply with the regulations may lead to the following consequences:
- Impossibility of legal access to restricted areas of the airport.
- Risk of administrative or legal sanctions for the company.
- Loss of bids or contracts that require security compliance and accreditations.
- Operational and reputational vulnerability increases: more possibility of incidents, delays, security failures.
Resources and links of interest related to AVSEC
AESA: list of accredited instructors for AVSEC training
Air Safety Law 21/2003 (Spain)
National Civil Aviation Security Program (PNS) – Chapter 11.
EU regulations applicable to airport security (EC Regulations 300/2008, EC 185/2010)
