Assigned UNDP individuals, acting as liaison with UNDSS CATSU and are responsible for responding to questions relating to air travel safety in accordance with the UNSMS Commercial Air Travel Safety Policy and these guidelines. Based on available information, ATSFPs prepare an analysis and provide a recommendation to UNDP units on the use of airlines not on UNDP booking list.
The UNSMS Commercial Air Travel Safety Policy provides a framework to enable due consideration of aviation safety factors in the selection of commercial air operators for undertaking official travel. For the purpose of these guidelines, aviation safety factors must be
The Designated Official has authority, in emergency situations, such as CASEVAC, evacuation and relocation for security purposes, to approve the use of any commercial air operator or commercially operated donated flight in the interest of ensuring UN personnel safety and security. Whenever practicable, such approval should be taken in consultation with the Heads of UNSMS entities or their designate(s). In emergency situations, the DO may also contact CATSU directly when urgent information is needed.
Donated flight references air transport offered and provided at no cost to UNDP by the air operator, whether the flight is operated by commercial air operator, by a private operator or by a civilian, government or military entity of a member state.
Air charter agreements refer to a contractual arrangement between an air operator and an organization employing its aircraft, crew and other necessary personnel for the sole purpose of providing short-term or long-term air transport services.
Serves as a central repository of commercial aviation safety information from specialized industry sources, analyses the information, based on advice provided by the Aviation Technical Advisory Group (ATAG) , and establishes a list of commercial air operators that are recommended for official travel of personnel within the UNSMS. CATSU also provides aviation safety information and advice regarding the air operators that are not on the recommended list and on donated flights upon request and as available. Real-time information is posted on the UNSMIN web page, which is accessible by UNDSS senior security professionals and Air Travel Safety Focal Points (ATSFPs) appointed by Agencies.