Aviation safety has consistently been a top priority for airlines, airports, and regulatory bodies worldwide. With increased travel demand, evolving security threats, and stricter regulations, the need for reliable sealing solutions has become more critical than ever. Tamper evident security tapes, labels, and cable seals play a vital role in aviation by safeguarding aircraft entry points, securing valuable cargo, and ensuring the integrity of onboard supplies, all crucial to upholding strict safety and operational standards.

At American Casting & Manufacturing, we recognize the importance of these security measures. With over 110 years of experience, our team has been at the forefront of developing advanced tamper-evident products specifically designed for the unique challenges of aviation. Our seals are trusted across private airfields, large commercial hubs, and even military facilities to ensure safety, compliance, and peace of mind.

Safeguarding Aircraft from Unauthorized Access

When aircraft are parked, whether on the runway, in hangars, or at remote stands, they become potential targets for unauthorized access. During these idle periods, it's critical to implement tamper-evident measures that visually confirm whether access points have been compromised.

Tamper-evident labels are frequently applied to cockpit doors, maintenance hatches, and storage panels. These labels display clear warnings, such as "VOID" or "OPENED," indicating disturbance, helping maintenance and security crews quickly identify unauthorized interference. Many versions include writable areas for date, time, and personnel initials, adding a layer of accountability during pre- and post-flight checks.

To preserve aircraft surfaces during inspections, non-residue security labels are often used. This allows for clean removal without damage, maintaining the integrity and appearance of sensitive exterior and interior panels. By incorporating tamper-evident labels into standard operating procedures, airlines can bolster regulatory compliance and ensure consistent protection against unauthorized access.

Protecting Cargo and Luggage in Transit

Cargo plays a vital role in aviation, transporting a wide range of items, from personal belongings to high-value equipment and goods. Unlike ground transport, air freight involves a wide range of packaging options, including crates, wrapped pallets, boxes, and containers, which require adaptable security solutions. Tamper-evident labels and security tapes provide visual proof of interference, helping crews quickly identify potential breaches during loading, unloading, or inspections.

Tamper-evident security tapes are engineered to adhere to multiple surfaces, including cardboard, plastic, and wood. Each strip includes printed indicators and serial numbers for tracking and verification throughout the cargo's journey. For shipments involving sensitive goods, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, or legal records, these tapes offer critical transparency and peace of mind.

When handling larger loads, heavy items, or reusable storage units, cable seals and plastic container seals become crucial. These devices secure containers and display visible signs of tampering if the containers are compromised. Combined, tamper-evident tapes, labels, and seals create a multi-layered approach to cargo protection, ensuring compliance with aviation standards while securing high-value items during transport.

The 3 Ultimate Basics of Cable Seals

While tamper-evident labels and security tapes provide essential visual alerts, cable seals deliver the physical security that aviation demands. Built with steel cables and durable locking mechanisms, these seals are engineered to resist force, manipulation, and environmental exposure. In critical aviation applications, where access points, cargo holds, and control panels must remain untouched, cable seals play a central role in maintaining control and safety.

A strong example is the 3/16" Heavy Duty Cable Locks - Model C1. This rugged seal features a solid aluminum body paired with a galvanized steel cable, offering unmatched strength for high-security uses. Its adjustable cable tightens cleanly around equipment or containers with no slack, reducing the risk of tampering. Once locked, it cannot be removed without cutting the cable, which provides unmistakable visual proof of access.

These three core benefits—exceptional strength, tight adjustability, and irreversible tamper-evident features—make the Model C1 cable seal a reliable choice for modern aviation security systems. Whether you're securing a cargo door, service hatch, or high-value freight, cable seals like this one ensure compliance, prevent breaches, and reinforce your overall safety protocols. In aviation, where every detail counts, heavy-duty cable locks bring peace of mind to the tarmac and beyond.

Proper Application of Cable Seals for Maximum Security

Even the most robust cable seal is only as effective as its application. In aviation security, proper installation is essential to ensure tamper resistance, traceability, and regulatory compliance. When seals are applied carelessly or inconsistently, they can leave gaps in protection and compromise the integrity of the chain of custody.

The process begins with selecting the appropriate cable seal based on length, tensile strength, and intended use. The cable must be routed through designated locking holes or anchor points, pulled snugly to eliminate slack, and securely locked using its built-in mechanism. A tightly fitted seal minimizes movement and discourages tampering. After installation, the serial number or barcode printed on the seal should be documented in logs or digital tracking systems.

Maintaining a transparent chain of custody is critical in aviation, where sealed items are often subject to audits and inspections. Proper application and documentation of cable seals ensure that cargo, access points, and equipment remain secure from tampering and unauthorized access. It also promotes a standardized security culture across airline operations, ground handling, and regulatory compliance.

Securing Passenger and Crew Consumables Onboard

In-flight consumables, including food, beverages, and medical supplies, play a vital role in passenger comfort and crew readiness. However, they also present potential safety risks if tampered with. Catering carts and medical kits pass through several handling stages before arriving in the aircraft cabin, making it essential to seal them properly to deter tampering and protect against contamination.

Tamper evident labels are essential tools in this process. Designed to adhere firmly to galley carts, food trays, and storage compartments, these labels provide a clear visual cue if a seal has been broken. Several solutions feature writable sections for crew signatures or timestamps, supporting clear tracking and accountability throughout each step of the supply chain.

In the wake of heightened awareness of hygiene and in-flight safety, visibly sealed consumables have become a passenger expectation. Applying tamper-evident labels reinforces confidence in onboard services, while supporting compliance with aviation health and safety protocols. It's a simple, yet powerful measure that enhances both operational integrity and traveler peace of mind.

Securing Life Vests and Emergency Equipment with Tamper Evident Labels

Critical onboard safety equipment, such as life vests, oxygen tanks, defibrillators, and medical kits, must remain intact and ready for immediate use. These items are often stored in compartments that should not be accessed between scheduled inspections. Tamper-evident labels provide a reliable way to monitor these assets by offering a clear visual signal, such as a VOID message, when a seal is broken or removed.

Today’s airline security labels are designed for strong adhesion to various materials, including metal, plastic, and fabric. They often feature barcodes, serial numbers, or writable fields to record inspection data and maintain clear tracking. This helps track the status of each item, supports compliance with aviation safety regulations, and streamlines maintenance workflows.

By using tamper-evident labels on emergency gear, airlines can improve the efficiency of safety checks while demonstrating their commitment to passenger protection. Sealed compartments send a strong message to travelers that safety equipment is monitored and ready, strengthening trust in both the airline and its procedures.

Enhancing Airport-Wide Access Control with Tamper Solutions

While aircraft security is critical, airports themselves are equally vulnerable to breaches if strict access control measures are not in place. From retail stockrooms and ticketing systems to air traffic control rooms and baggage handling zones, the potential for unauthorized access exists across every square foot of an airport. Tamper evident security tapes and labels offer a straightforward and effective method for securing doors, cabinets, equipment, and storage areas in high-traffic environments.

Our adhesive labels are designed to adhere to a wide range of surfaces, including plastic, metal, wood, and glass, ensuring security in any airport environment. Whether securing a tool cabinet in a hangar or sealing a door to a sensitive equipment room, these labels create a clear signal if someone attempts to gain unauthorized access.

Airport staff can also use our cable seals on gates, fencing, or large containers for added strength and visual deterrence. Together, these solutions enable airport managers to meet safety standards and safeguard vital systems from tampering, theft, or misuse. Operational security depends on proactive systems. By integrating tamper-evident labels and cable seals across the facility, airports can protect people, assets, and infrastructure with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Why American Casting & Manufacturing Is the Trusted Choice in Aviation Security

With over 110 years of experience, American Casting & Manufacturing has established itself as a trusted name in the aviation security industry. We've worked alongside airports, airlines, cargo carriers, and regulatory agencies to design sealing solutions that meet their evolving needs. Our tamper-evident tapes, labels, and cable seals are manufactured in the United States and undergo rigorous quality control to ensure optimal performance in even the most demanding environments.

Our team takes the time to understand your security challenges and recommend the best sealing options for your application, offering the ultimate peace of mind. Whether you're looking to secure aircraft doors, cargo pallets, catering carts, or safety kits, we're here to help you build a system that's compliant, efficient, and easy to implement.

We also offer comprehensive customer support to guide you through the installation process, product selection, and regulatory compliance. To speak with one of our sealing experts, contact us at Toll-Free (866) 360-6748 or 516-349-7010, Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST. You can also contact us by email at info@seals.com. Visit our About Us page to learn more about our heritage, commitment to quality, and dedication to innovation.