As part of its ongoing commitment to training and education within the region, SACBO recently hosted the conference “Safety & Security: Synergies in Organisational Models” at the Giovanni XXIII Congress Centre in Bergamo. The event brought together experts, university professors, managers, and industry professionals to discuss the current and future challenges of airport safety in an increasingly complex and technologically advanced landscape.
The conference opened with remarks by SACBO President Giovanni Sanga, followed by moderation from lawyer Roberto Magri, President of the Supervisory Body. At the core of the discussions was the issue of administrative responsibility for airport operators, with a strong focus on the importance of adopting reliable, up-to-date organisational models that can effectively assess and manage risks.
Airport safety is divided into two complementary areas: safety, which refers to the protection of people and infrastructure from accidental threats, and security, which involves the prevention and countering of unlawful acts. As highlighted during the event, these two dimensions require an integrated approach—based on operational synergy, shared protocols, and continuous training.
One of the key themes that emerged was the growing digitalisation of airport processes. From automated boarding procedures to AI-based systems, the aviation sector is undergoing a profound transformation. This shift calls for updated safety standards and constant technological oversight. In this context, Legislative Decree 231 has further reinforced the need for robust Organisational, Management, and Control Models that include a strong focus on cybersecurity and the prevention of cybercrime.
In his speech, President Sanga emphasised that “safety is the foundation on which all aeronautical activity is built.” Within a strategic infrastructure like an airport, safety is defined by the ability to anticipate, adapt to, and respond to change—supported by the pivotal role of continuous training.