Foreign airlines that operate flights within the European Union (EU) must create and develop an aviation security program. The aviation security program describes measures that an airline applies to ensure safe air traffic. This serves in particular to prevent aircraft hijacking, acts of sabotage and terrorist attacks.

As a foreign air carrier intending to use commercial airports in the Federal Republic of Germany, you must draw up an aviation security program and submit it to the Federal Aviation Office (LBA) for approval.

Why do I need approval?

An approved aviation security program is a prerequisite for the granting of

• the operating permit prior to the commencement of scheduled air traffic to and from Germany for air carriers that are not based in the European Economic Area (EEA)
• the entry permit prior to the commencement of charter flights to and from Germany for air carriers from non-EEA member states

How long is the approved aviation security program valid?

An approved aviation security program for foreign air carriers is valid indefinitely.

However, at the latest 5 years after approval, it will be checked whether the aviation security program still complies with the then applicable regulations.

You are therefore obliged to report all changes to the aviation security program to the Luftfahrt-Bundesamt on an ongoing basis.

What exceptions are there?

Approval of the aviation security program may be waived in the following cases:

• Your company only operates aircraft with a maximum weight of up to 5.7 tons. A submission for approval may be required in individual cases.
• You already have a confirmation from the competent authority of your country in the EEA that you have an approved aviation security program for air carriers in accordance with the EU regulation.

The exceptions do not apply to the approval of special aviation security programs for flights to Berlin.