Dangerous Goods and Security
Dangerous goods framework
Brazil follows ICAO Annex 18 and the ICAO Technical Instructions, implemented through RBAC 175 (transport of dangerous goods by air) and the ANAC/ANVISA/DECEA interfaces. Key concepts: the nine hazard classes, proper shipping name, UN number, packing group, shipper's declaration, and the distinction between forbidden, permitted with approval, and permitted items. Operators need an approved dangerous goods programme, trained and qualified personnel, and acceptance procedures. Cabin crew must know what passengers may carry and how to respond to incidents.
Traps
- Confusing excepted quantities, limited quantities and fully regulated shipments.
- Assuming a passenger may carry any lithium battery; watt-hour limits and spare-battery rules differ.
- Forgetting that the pilot-in-command must be notified of dangerous goods on board and that a written report is required for incidents.
- Treating security as only airport screening; the operator's security programme, access control, and crew screening are also regulated.
Security
RBAC 107 and the National Civil Aviation Security Programme (PNAVSEC) define operator obligations: security programme, training, catering and supply chain controls, and reporting of acts of unlawful interference. The trap is assuming the airport operator alone bears all security responsibility; the aircraft operator carries its own programme obligations.
Rule of thumb
For any item: identify class and UN number, check whether it is forbidden, permitted as cargo, or permitted as passenger baggage, and confirm training and documentation before acceptance.