Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl), the largest independent handler at Hong Kong International Airport, has achieved Operating Status, the highest level attainable for new entrants in the IATA Security Management System (SeMS).

The IATA SeMS Certification process emphasises six key areas: corporate commitment and governance, resource management, threat assessment and risk management, quality assurance and control, emergencies and incidents management, and security documentation.

Hactl's successful certification was achieved following a rigorous on-site assessment by IATA auditors, which provided a comprehensive evaluation of the organisation’s readiness and maturity in line with IATA's SeMS framework.

It added that a further, non-mandatory core component – Cyber Security / Insider Threat - was also addressed and thoroughly assessed during the audit.

According to IATA's SeMS audit report, Hactl demonstrates a strong commitment to aviation security excellence and has embedded security considerations throughout its operations.

This includes well-defined governance structures, an evolving security strategy, proactive collaboration with business departments, and a culture that fosters continuous improvement.

"Hactl has built a security governance framework, fostered strong internal collaboration, and shown a commitment to transparency, compliance, and continuous improvement. This certification demonstrates Hactl’s dedication to creating a culture of continuous improvement across not only their operational policy but the entire supply chain," said  Brendan Sullivan, global head of cargo at IATA.

Hactl Chief Executive Wilson Kwong emphasised the critical role of security in the company’s operations and pledged ongoing improvements in this area. 

"We are extremely proud to be one of the first two handlers in Asia to achieve certification under the excellent IATA SeMS scheme," Kwong said.

"Security is multi-faceted, highly demanding and must keep pace with the ever-changing shape of our industry and its threats. That's why Hactl is determined to place security at the forefront of its business, and why we welcome the strong external scrutiny and validation provided by SeMS."

"Only by subjecting ourselves to this kind of thorough examination can we be certain that our business, staff and customers are fully protected from the many potential threats that exist in our business today. We strongly recommend all handlers to participate in SeMs, so that we can all work together to build a totally secure industry," the Hactl chief added.