The initial version of a new security programme for larger general aviation aircraft could be completed as early as this quarter, according to the National Business Aviation Association.
Prepared by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and industry groups over the past few years, the new programme is likely to include measures to verify the identity of pilots and passengers, though specific protocols are not being discussed, says Douglas Carr, vice-president of safety and regulation for NBAA. The new measures, which are sometimes referred to as the Large Aircraft Standard Security Programme, will complement TSA's "Twelve-five" security programme which requires Part 135 charter aircraft with maximum take-off weights of more than 5,680kg (12,500lb) to comply with various standards including a criminal records check and staff finger printing. A similar programme is aimed at on-demand operators of private charter aircraft with a maximum take off weight of up to 43,000kg.
Carr emphasises that the GA programme, at least by early indications, will not be a scaled-down version of the Twelve-five. "The requirements that are being looked at are very specific to our community," he says. "They're not developed from other models that would not work for GA." Carr says the TSA is currently deciding which aircraft must participate in the programme, a decision point that will likely be based on weight. Carr says the rule is unlikely to include "typical piston and light turboprop" aircraft.
Even if the TSA publishes the proposal this quarter, a final rule is likely to take almost two additional years to complete due to the regulatory process, Carr says.
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Source: Flight International
