ICAO audit shows strong improvement in Thailand’s aviation security standards
ICAO’s latest USAP-CMA audit reports major progress in Thailand’s aviation security standards, boosting international confidence in the country’s civil aviation oversight.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has completed its audit of aviation security standards at the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) under the Universal Security Audit Programme – Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA).
The audit was conducted from November 4 to 18, 2025 at CAAT headquarters and other key agencies, including the Immigration Bureau, Customs Department, Department of Consular Affairs, Suvarnabhumi Airport, Chiang Mai Airport, the Suvarnabhumi Air Traffic Control Centre, the Chiang Mai Air Traffic Control Centre, airport cargo terminals and inflight catering facilities.
Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director of CAAT, said the audit aimed to assess the effectiveness of Thailand’s compliance with international aviation security standards and recommended practices. The assessment covered nine core areas, including legal and regulatory frameworks, training, quality control, airport and aircraft security, passenger and baggage screening, cargo and mail security, catering security, response to unlawful interference, and facilitation measures linked to aviation security.
The audit involved close cooperation from a wide range of state and industry stakeholders, such as the Royal Thai Police, Immigration Bureau, Customs Department, Department of Consular Affairs, National Security Council, National Counter-Terrorism Centre, National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA), Suvarnabhumi and Chiang Mai airports, AEROTHAI, as well as multiple airlines, cargo operators and catering companies — all key components of Thailand’s aviation security system.
During the closing session, ICAO auditors reported significant improvements in Thailand’s aviation security oversight, reflecting strong commitment across agencies to align with international standards and enhance both security and facilitation measures.
The audit marks an important milestone for Thailand, reinforcing the country’s position as a state that places the highest priority on aviation security and strengthening international confidence in the robustness and sustainability of Thailand’s aviation oversight system.
