Aviation security experts and stakeholders have called for a shift from traditional threat detection to proactive, human-centred strategies as the global aviation landscape becomes increasingly complex and unpredictable.

The call came at a virtual summit by the Managing Director of Pathfinders, Nkechi Onyenso with the theme: ‘Navigating the Ever-Revolving Aviation Landscape: From Emerging Threats to Strategic Resilience.’

In his keynote address, Visiting Professor of Aviation Security at Coventry University, Philip Baum, traced the evolution of aviation security from the first recorded hijacking in 1931 to present-day threats.

Baum who is also the Managing Director, Green Light Ltd, emphasised that while traditional risks such as hijackings and bombings had declined, warned that the aviation sector must not become complacent.

He maintained that adversaries continued to evolve and exploit systemic vulnerabilities.

According to him, existing screening systems remained largely focused on detecting prohibited items, rather than identifying malicious intent, a gap he said could be exploited by sophisticated attackers.

Baum further mentioned a growing spectrum of threats facing the industry, including cyberattacks, insider threats and mental health-related risks among aviation personnel, which he identified as the three most critical dangers to civil aviation today.

He also drew attention to the increasing frequency of unruly passenger incidents, noting that industry data recorded over 93,000 cases in 2025, equivalent to one incident in every 355 flights.

Baum emphasised that airport law enforcement agencies globally respond to an estimated 300 such incidents daily.

Besides, he pointed to emerging tactics, which he described as “avión patera,” a situation where passengers stage in-flight emergencies to force diversions and escape upon landing, as well as other risks including cockpit laser attacks, missile threats, and stowaways.

He further warned that aviation was increasingly being used as a platform for political activism, citing disruptions caused by groups such as Extinction Rebellion and Femen, as well as protest actions linked to deportation cases.

Baum stressed that human intelligence was the most effective defence against both current and future threats, noting that airports were not equipped to detect chemical or biological weapons, which he mentioned as potential tools for future attacks.

He also raised concerns over insider threats within the aviation ecosystem, including rare, but devastating cases of aircraft-assisted suicides by pilots.

In his presentation, Police Advisor with Ghent Local Police, Belgium, Kim Covent, offered a cross-sector perspective on resilience, drawing lessons from policing, nuclear security, museum protection and victim safety.

Covent emphasised the growing influence of disinformation on public trust and operational effectiveness, noting that legitimacy and clarity of roles were necessary for effective security systems.

She also, like Baum, mentioned insider threats and the implications of generative artificial intelligence, stressing that individuals could represent both the greatest vulnerability and the strongest line of defence within any security framework.

Covent further pointed to challenges posed by cultural activism and limited resources, while also addressing emerging risks linked to online victimisation and technology-driven vulnerabilities.

According to her, building resilience required a deeper understanding of human behaviour, the adoption of multidisciplinary perspectives and continuous preparedness through realistic simulations and scenario-based exercises.

In her closing remarks, Onyenso canvassed the need for stakeholders to move beyond dialogue and translate insights into action.

Onyenso explained that resilience had become a strategic necessity for the aviation sector.

She said: “Our discussions have reinforced a critical truth: resilience is no longer optional; it is a strategic imperative.

“The ability to anticipate risks, adapt to change, and innovate with purpose will determine the sustainability and success of the aviation industry.”

She called for stronger collaboration across borders, improved governance frameworks and sustained investment in both human capital and technology, stressing that these elements are essential to building a safer, more resilient aviation ecosystem.

She further commended participants, speakers and partners for their contributions, urging continued collaboration to shape an aviation industry that was secure, sustainable and future-ready.

The summit had professionals from across the aviation, security and regulatory ecosystem who examined evolving risks and the urgent need for adaptive, forward-looking solutions.