The Department for Transport (DfT) sets the list of disqualifying convictions, including offences at the more serious end of the spectrum (with relatively minor offences usually not being included). Disqualifying convictions are selected under the following criteria:
- Any convictions directly related to terrorism
- Convictions that may be inappropriate for someone working in the aviation industry (e.g. immigration offences)
- Convictions over which someone could be subject to undue influence/coercion
- Convictions that call into question an individual's integrity and trustworthiness
Applicants will fail the criminal records check if it reveals an unspent conviction for a disqualifying offence. Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (for England, Wales and Scotland) and the Rehabilitation of Offenders (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 (for Northern Ireland) criminal convictions can become spent or ignored after a rehabilitation period.
Please see CAP 2159 which includes a list of the UK offences for which an unspent criminal conviction disqualifies the person from completing a background check.
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