TSA wants to implement large aircraft security program
In a move to prevent general aviation aircraft from being used to transport dangerous people or goods, the Transportation Security Administration has filed a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that would effectively subject smaller planes to the same scrutiny as commercial aircraft.
The new Large Aircraft Security Program (LASP) regulation would require all U.S. operators of aircraft exceeding 12,500 pounds maximum take-off weight to implement security programs that would be subject to compliance audits by the agency.
Maximum take-off weight is defined as the maximum weight approved at the start of a takeoff run. This regulation covers business jets such as the Cessna Citation X, Bombardier Learjet 40XR, and the Hawker 400XP.
The TSA is also proposing that air cargo operators whose aircraft have a maximum take-off weight of 100,309.3 pounds be subject to the same security measures.
The following are some of the security measures that the TSA would like to implement for GA aircraft and cargo aircraft operators:
Ensure that their flight crew members have undergone a fingerprint-based
criminal history records check (CHRC).Conduct watch-list matching of their passengers through TSA-approved watchlist
matching service providers.Undergo a biennial audit of their compliance by a TSA-approved third party auditor. Comply with the current cargo requirements for the twelve-five all-cargo program
if conducting an all-cargo operation.For aircraft with a MTOW of over 45,500 kilograms operated for compensation
or hire, screen passengers and their accessible property.Check property on board for unauthorized persons.
In other words, TSA is proposing that general aviation aircraft and cargo operators be subject to the same scrutiny as commercial aircraft.
The TSA is inviting the public to comment. You can read and download the text of the proposal in PDF format here. You have 60 days to comment on the proposal.
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One Response to “TSA wants to implement large aircraft security program”
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How far will this go. I think the TSA is more paranoid than the general public. You can be sure that more rules beget more inspectors which beget more cost which begets more expense to the travelling public (who take smaller planes).
Of course the TSA needs to find more work so that they become indispensible.
What is a TSA approved watch list? Can you get on it unknowingly