What does the term "aviation security" encompass in air law?

The term "aviation security" encompasses a wide range of measures designed to protect civil aviation from unlawful interference. This includes various strategies and protocols that aim to prevent acts such as terrorism, hijacking, and sabotage, ensuring the safety and security of passengers, crew, airports, and aircraft.

By focusing on what is broadly considered unlawful interference, aviation security captures all necessary precautions—ranging from the screening of passengers and baggage to the implementation of security procedures at airports. It incorporates not just the physical aspects (like securing the aircraft itself), but extends to operational protocols, intelligence, and coordination among various stakeholders in the aviation sector.

The other options are limited in scope. While physical security of aircraft is a part of aviation security, it does not cover the full breadth of preventive measures. Similarly, protocols for luggage handling are one aspect of securing aviation but do not encompass the comprehensive actions taken against all potential threats. Lastly, ensuring the safety of crew members is vital but again is only one facet of the broader category of aviation security, which is focused on preventing unlawful interference and ensuring safety for all aspects of civil aviation operations.