General Aviation Security - Operational Security

Flight Schools

In addition to pilot screening and credentialing programs, the Federal Aviation Administration has taken a number of actions addressing security for flight schools and for those facilities that rent out aircraft. Federal law requires that appropriate staff at flight schools undergo Transportation Security Administration-mandated security awareness training on a current and recurring annual basis so that they can recognize any suspicious circumstances and/or activities of individuals enrolling in or attending a flight school; the types of suspicious behavior that require further investigation; and actions to take if the employee suspects terrorist intent. The training includes a review of 22 different scenarios covering actions that terrorists may attempt at airports.

All U.S. flight schools must have an acting security manager that oversees the school’s implementation and compliance with all mandated security programs.

Promoting A Strong Security Culture

As part of the General Aviation community’s coordinated, proactive national response to securing our aviation resources from potential acts of terror, every agency and participant is working to promote a strong security culture. In addition to physical and informational security, this security culture also includes security practices directly related to daily flight operations.

Charter Flights

Twelve-Five Standard Security Program (TFSSP)
For companies that fly scheduled or charter flights carrying passengers, cargo, or both using aircraft weighing more than 12,500 pounds, the federal government has established airline-style security requirements. Known as “the twelve-five rule”, the TFSSP requires these operators to carry out a range of prescribed security measures, including criminal background checks on their flight crews, and allowing only required crewmembers to have access to the flight deck.

Stricter measures are required by the federal government for companies that fly even larger charter aircraft, including more stringent passenger and baggage screening requirements, and security measures that parallel those used by the airlines.

Best Practices For Business Aviation Security

The historical record proves that business aviation is one of the safest and most secure forms of transportation available. The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) represents the aviation interests of more than 7,000 companies that own or operate General Aviation aircraft as an aid to the conduct of business, or that are involved with some other aspect of business aviation. As an adjunct to the security practices prescribed by various government agencies, the NBAA has published Best Practices for Business Aviation Security. These voluntary guidelines cover security practices related to people, facilities, aircraft, and procedures.

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