Cargo Systems Messaging Service

CSMS # 69486540 - CBP Announces Extension of Enhanced Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) Full Enforcement Phase

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is notifying the trade community that the phased enforcement period announced in Section IV.I. of the Enhanced Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) Interim Final Rule (IFR) (90 FR 52796, 52817 (Nov. 21, 2025)) has been extended to May 1, 2027.

The ACAS program requires air carriers and other eligible filers to submit specific data elements for air cargo shipments as early as practicable, but no later than prior to loading the cargo onto an aircraft destined for the United States. This advance information is essential to CBP’s ability to identify, assess, and mitigate potential security risks before cargo enters the air transportation environment.

To support operational readiness and allow the trade community additional time to complete system integrations, refine compliance procedures, and resolve data quality issues, CBP is extending the Enhanced ACAS Interim Final Rule’s (IFR) phased enforcement period. The phased enforcement period was initially set to run for 12 months following the IFR’s effective date (November 21, 2025 through November 21, 2026).

Effective immediately, the Enhanced ACAS IFR’s phased enforcement period is extended from November 21, 2026, to May 1, 2027. This extension is subject to the conditions discussed in Section IV.I. of the Enhanced ACAS IFR and solely affects requirements promulgated through the publication of the Enhanced ACAS IFR.

During this extended phased enforcement period, CBP will continue to focus on stakeholder outreach, technical assistance, and data quality monitoring. These efforts are intended to help air carriers, filers, and other eligible parties prepare for full enforcement and ensure a smooth transition.

During the extension, air carriers and filers are expected to:

• Continue submitting ACAS data in accordance with existing regulatory requirements;
• Promptly address any data quality issues identified by CBP;
• Confirm that internal systems can meet the technical specifications required for full enforcement; and
• Maintain coordination with CBP representatives to support timely resolution of implementation concerns.

The ACAS program remains an important component of CBP’s layered security strategy. CBP strongly encourages all affected parties to use this additional time to complete necessary preparations. Timely and accurate ACAS submissions are critical to strengthening air cargo security, protecting the supply chain, and supporting the safe and efficient movement of legitimate trade.

For technical questions regarding ACAS implementation, please contact your assigned Client Representative. For operational inquiries, please contact the National Targeting Center atACAS-SUPPORT@cbp.dhs.gov. For policy-related inquiries, please contact Cargo and Conveyance Security at OFO-MANIFESTBRANCH@cbp.dhs.gov.

CBP will provide additional updates regarding the extended phased enforcement period through future Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS) messages.