(Posted 03rd September 2026)
Convention on International Civil Aviation requires all ICAO Member States to protect civilian aircraft, prohibits use of weapons
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is reiterating its calls for stronger commitments from all Member States to protect civilian aircraft from all risks arising from conflict zones.
This message from the specialized agency of the United Nations comes as the risk of weapons targeting civilian planes grows worldwide. Long-range weapons systems, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), global navigation satellite system radio frequency interference, and advanced air defence systems are among the military technologies jeopardizing civilian aviation.
ICAO is observing heightened risks of civil aircraft being targeted or caught in crossfire, and while the aviation industry is able to reroute flights and maintain operations during conflicts, this operational flexibility does not address the fundamental security threat.
Article 3 bis of the 1944 Convention on Civil Aviation and ICAO Assembly Resolution A42-4 explicitly prohibit the use of weapons against civilian aircraft.
As reaffirmed in last year’s unanimous adoption of ICAO Assembly Resolution A42-4: Addressing risks to civil aviation arising from conflict zones, it is essential that Member States assess the safety of airspace controlled by them and take all appropriate measures. Aircraft operators must also conduct safety and security risk assessments in accordance with applicable ICAO provisions and guidance.
Member States must share threat intelligence rapidly when activities pose risks to civilian aircraft, strengthen risk assessment mechanisms and timely decision making, and improve coordination between military and civilian authorities to prevent misidentification of civilian aircraft as military targets.
ICAO is updating its Manual Concerning Safety Measures relating to Military Activities and its Risk Assessment Manual for Civil Aircraft Operations Over or Near Conflict Zones, which focus on how authorities and airlines and air navigation services providers can better assess threats from malicious activities.
