On 10 and 11 June 2026, Strasbourg became the focal point for over 70 international experts, law enforcement, and border officials committed to countering the misuse of private aircrafts, helicopters and other non-commercial aviation for drug trafficking and related illicit financial activities. The 7th Expert Network Session on General Aviation addressed the increasing threat posed by organised crime groups exploiting general aviation for smuggling purposes.

Organised by the Pompidou Group with the support of the European Union’s EMPACT (European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats) and Benelux Secretariat, the session provided a dedicated forum for exchanging experience, assessing emerging risks, and sharing effective practices aimed at preventing the transportation of drugs through general aviation channels.

In her opening remarks, Ms Christiane SCHIMECK, Executive Secretary of the Pompidou Group and Head of Health and Addictions Department, stated that:

“The expertise gathered in this Network and the spirit of co-operation that has characterised this initiative over the years are among its greatest strengths.”

Mr Tony VERACHTERT, the Chair of the Expert Network on General Aviation highlighted that:

“General Aviation is a domain of freedom, flexibility and innovation. But as we all know, where there is opportunity, there is also vulnerability. This is a transition point, where experience becomes knowledge; knowledge becomes strategy and strategy becomes action.”

Over two days, participants explored new approaches to surveillance, risk detection and interagency co-operation, highlighting the increasing role of data-driven tools and analytical methods in identifying and disrupting smuggling operations. Discussions also showcased innovative regional and international practices aimed at strengthening aviation security and closing operational gaps.

A key outcome of the session was the decision to start work, in co-operation with EMPACT, on the development of a working group to develop and maintain a single point of contact (SPOC) network, designed to improve communication and co-operation between authorities and private-sector stakeholders across jurisdictions.

The session concluded with a renewed commitment to closer international co-operation, stronger information-sharing and continued innovation to address evolving security risks in the general aviation sector. The partnerships and expertise brought together in Strasbourg will support ongoing efforts to protect aviation from criminal misuse, particularly in relation to illegal drug trafficking.