In response to what it feels are vulnerabilities in aviation security, the TSA today published a Notice in the Federal Register regarding “Security Requirements for Aircraft Operators Certificated Pursuant to 14 CFR Part 125”. The Notice requires “aircraft operators using aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight (MTOW) over 12,500 pounds, that are certificated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under 14 CFR part 125 and that are not currently operating under a TSA security program, to meet the requirements of 49 CFR 1544.101(e) or (f)“.
For operations of aircraft with a MTOW of more than 12,500 pounds, the aircraft operator must conduct a search of the aircraft before departure and screen passengers, crew members and other persons, and all accessible property before boarding. For all-cargo operations using an aircraft with a MTOW of more than 12,500 pounds and passenger operations conducted in an aircraft with a MTOW of more than 12,500 pounds and up to and including 45,500 kg (100,309.3 pounds), the aircraft operator will need to comply with the procedures and requirements contained in 49 CFR 1544.101(e) or (f). This will include implementation of a security program that provides for the security of persons and property traveling on flights, designation of an Aircraft Operator Security Coordinator, verification of the identity of flight crew members, security training, and procedures to respond to certain threats. For all passenger operations using an aircraft with a MTOW greater than 45,500 kg (100,309.3 pounds) or with a passenger seating configuration of 61 or more, the aircraft operator must implement the security procedures included in 49 CFR 1544.101(f) and must also screen individuals and their accessible property and provide for the use of metal detection devices and x-ray systems.
Affected aircraft operators can obtain the specific security programs and related security directives from David Bernier, TSA-7, Director of Air Carrier Inspections, Aviation Regulation and Inspection Division, Office of Aviation Operations, Transportation Security Administration HQ, 11th Floor, East Building, 601 South 12th Street, Arlington, VA 22202-4220; telephone (571) 227-2200; facsimile (703) 603-0414; e-mail aircarrierinspection@tsa.dot.gov.
