Regulated agents

Around 80% of air cargo is carried on passenger aircraft, so it is important that all air cargo is robustly screened to ensure that prohibited articles are not part of flown cargo. To be able to handle secure cargo, companies need to become a Regulated Agent. The following information is provided to assist cargo handling companies and freight forwarders to become regulated.

List of regulated cargo agents (to be used only if the UK Database on Supply Chain Security is not available).

A guide to completing a security programme is available from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) using the link on this page for the Cargo and In-Flight Business Support Unit. This provides a useful template to follow to help you prepare a security programme.

Pre-requisites

You can apply to be included on the list of Regulated Agents if:

You handle cargo which will be carried on civil aircraft.
Cargo handled by you is for carriage from any aerodrome in the United Kingdom to a destination outside the United Kingdom.
You or another person acting on your behalf deliver cargo direct to an aircraft operator.

You must be able to demonstrate that:

All staff (permanent, temporary/agency staff and drivers) with access to air cargo/mail have received the appropriate aviation security training.
That your site is secure and access controls are in place.
All staff that will be responsible for screening cargo, staff that handle or have access to secure cargo and staff that implement other security controls must have completed a background check.
Security Managers and nominated Site Security Representatives (SSRs) must have completed a Counter Terrorism Check (CTC).

How do I apply?

Complete the application form

For new agents, tick 'New Application'.
To move to a new site or add a new site to a current listing, tick 'Additional Site'.
For changes to Security Manager or Site Security Representative, tick 'Update of Details'.
To extend Regulated Agent status, tick 'Relisting'.
For other changes in operations, such as new x-ray machines or updates to regulation, tick 'Other Changes'.

How much does it cost?

Costs are detailed in the CAA Scheme of Charges (Aviation Security)

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What do I need to send with my application?

You will need to send the following information with your application:

Completed application form, the Security Manager must sign the Declaration of Commitments Part D.
Security Programme (sent by Egress only, USB storage devices are not accepted).
Payment for the new site or new application to become a Regulated Agent.
Covering letter explaining when the new site or agent wants to be listed and when the site will be operational.

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How long will it take for my application to be processed?

Allow 56 days from the point of application to the granting of Regulated Status. This timeframe is contingent on the mandatory security programme and site assessment meeting all the necessary requirements and fees being received.

How long is it valid for?

Listing can be for up to a maximum of five years.

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What happens next?

The Security Programme will be read and approved by a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Aviation Security Compliance Auditor.
A site visit will be arranged by a CAA Aviation Compliance Team Manager.
Once approved, a new agent will be served Directions, RA and UAI numbers; new sites will receive an RA and UAI number.
The Regulated Agent will be listed (as on this page) and on the UK Database on Supply Chain Security.

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