From 23 to 27 February, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department organized a training course on passenger screening and X-ray image interpretation at aviation checkpoints in Chisinau, Moldova. The course brought together 13 aviation security (AVSEC) officers from Moldova's General Inspectorate of Border Police serving at Chisinau International Airport.
The training enhanced the operational effectiveness of frontline border officers responsible for passenger and baggage screening, equipping them with advanced competencies in X-ray image interpretation, detection of prohibited and illicit items, and inspection decision-making in line with international AVSEC standards.
The participants reviewed key international and regional AVSEC frameworks, including International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 17 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. The course covered the recognition of explosive devices, firearms, improvised weapons, as well as emerging threats facing civil aviation. Moldovan officers also strengthened their understanding of radiation safety and technical functioning of X-ray systems, including how materials interact with X-ray imaging technology.
A central component of the course was hands-on training at Chisinau International Airport. Participants practiced realistic screening scenarios using training kits on AVSEC donated by the OSCE to Moldovan Border Police in 2025. The practical sessions reinforced participants' ability to interpret complex X-ray images, identify suspicious items and apply multi-layered passenger screening processes effectively.
"The practical exercises throughout the training increased my confidence and precision at the checkpoint, directly enhancing the effectiveness of passenger and baggage screening at Chisinau International Airport," said Doina Pasat, AVSEC instructor of the General Inspectorate of Border Police.
"I am grateful to the OSCE for organizing such an interactive and practice-oriented course that deepened my understanding of ICAO Annex 17 and emerging aviation threats. The knowledge gained during this training will enhance our day-to-day screening performance and contribute to a stronger, more resilient AVSEC system for Moldova," said Anatolie Vudvud, AVSEC instructor of the General Inspectorate of Border Police.
The training was organized within the framework of the OSCE extrabudgetary project, " Support to the Law Enforcement Agencies in Moldova in Response to the Security Challenges in the Region ". The project aims to strengthen Moldova's capacity to counter transnational threats and reinforce border security in line with international commitments. It is funded by France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom and the United States.
