In July 2024, the air cargo supply chain was targeted with an unprecedented act of interference and sabotage in Europe.  Improvised Incendiary Devices (IIDs) were placed inside parcels that were then consigned for uplift as air cargo.  One of the parcels caught fire inside a logistics facility, and another caught fire during transfer to an aircraft on the apron.  Both caused damage to infrastructure and ground equipment; fortunately, no damage to aircraft or injuries to persons were reported.  The IIDs were, however, intentionally designed to cause damage, destruction and disruption to air cargo supply chain interests. The purpose of these attacks and the perpetrators are still the subject of investigation. 

The deliberate weaponization of incendiary material, assembled into an IID designed to inflict damage and destruction, appears to be a novel modus operandi.  These events generated significant chaos and disruption to air cargo supply chains, the ramifications of which are still being felt today.  Moreover, the incidents exposed a vulnerability in the system that is potentially global. 

To assist air carriers and supply chain partners in understanding and addressing the risks posed by IID, IATA, through its various governance groups, commenced development of an IID Guidance document. Following the development and review of the IID Guidance over the last few months, the document was endorsed in February 2025. 

Whilst the IID Guidance does summarize the specific IID serious incidents that occurred in July 2024, the security measures are aimed at addressing the general threat posed by IIDs to civil aviation.  Implementation of the security measures outlined by the IID Guidance is by nature optional and for a wide audience (including External Service Providers acting on behalf of Operators).  Air carriers/supply chain partners may choose to implement these measures based on their operation and risk assessment activity. 

Key Elements

The IID Guidance incorporates the following key elements:

  • Definition of key terms, generally aligned with international terminology and best practice
  • Summary of the IID serious incidents
  • Summary of the general threat posed by uncontrolled incendiaries to civil aviation, from both a security and safety standpoint
  • A suite of security measures aimed at addressing the threat of IIDs that carriers may consider implementing based on their operations and risk assessment
  • A summary of other useful resources and reference materials 

The IID Guidance (pdf) document is a ‘live’ document and will be updated as the threat landscape and corresponding countermeasures evolve. 

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