Be the Eyes in the Sky. Disrupt Human Trafficking!
Aviation is rightly celebrated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) as the ‘business of freedom,’ connecting cultures, families, and economies. In 2024 alone, IATA reported 40.6 million flights.
Yet, this very network of freedom is being exploited by criminals for a sinister trade: human trafficking.
Human Trafficking Awareness Course
Why this course?
ITS Academy is proud to support the vital efforts and goals of IATA in combating human trafficking.
IATA’s goal is clear: "that every member airline, irrespective of size, is aware of the issue and has the tools and resources available to participate in the fight against trafficking.”
This course is a direct response to that call. We have aligned our curriculum with industry best practices to provide the specific tools and resources that IATA advocates for. By training your team, you are not only safeguarding your operations but actively participating in a coordinated, global industry mission to create a hostile environment for traffickers.
Transnational criminal groups are using the air transport system to move victims across borders, forcing them into labour or commercial sexual exploitation. This is a brutal violation of human rights happening in our airports and on our aircraft. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), over 60% of victims are trafficked across international borders, making aviation staff a critical line of defence.
This isn't a distant issue, it happens in our terminals and on our planes. And we, aviation professionals, have the unique position to spot what others miss.
As cabin crew, pilots, ground staff, and airport personnel, we are the eyes and ears of the aviation industry. Our daily interactions and observational skills can make a difference. A suspicious glance, a controlled conversation, a passenger who seems disoriented or fearful can be the subtle indicators of trafficking.
This course transforms aviation staff’s innate awareness into actionable knowledge. It empowers them to:
Identify the subtle signs of potential trafficking in a travel environment.
Understand the critical role they play in the global efforts to combat this crime.
Respond safely and appropriately for themselves, the victim, and other passengers.
Fulfil the industry's responsibility to protect the most vulnerable.
The aviation industry has a clear mandate from IATA to combat human trafficking, which begins with one thing: persistent airline staff awareness.
Course Overview:
⏰ Duration: 4 Hours (Available as a half-day session)
💻 Format: Live, instructor-facilitated. (Available in-person in the classroom or online via a virtual live session.)
👩🏼✈️Who should attend? All aviation professionals: cabin crew, pilots, check-in staff, security personnel, gate agents, and more.
Some of the Topics Covered:
Human Trafficking: Definitions, scope, and how it specifically exploits aviation networks.
The Aviation Professional's Role: Understanding our collective responsibility and the IATA guidelines.
Spotting the Red Flags: Behavioural, physical, and situational indicators in passengers and their documents.
The Approach & Communication: How to safely interact with a potential victim and report your suspicions.
Reporting Protocols: Clear, confidential, and effective procedures for alerting the relevant authorities.
Case Studies & Simulations: Analyse real-world scenarios and practice your response in a supportive environment.
Join a growing network of aviation professionals who are committed to safeguarding our industry and protecting human lives.
Your vigilance could save someone from a lifetime of exploitation!

