TSA initiative to tackle security

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is developing an aviation security programme for large corporate aircraft.

Hints about the new initiative emerged on 19 January, when TSA chief Kip Hawley told US politicians his agency was preparing to "reach out" to the general aviation community to discuss the need for a more comprehensive threat-based security programme. Hawley was testifying at a Senate hearing about implementation of 9/11 Commission recommendations.

Officials with the National Business Aviation Association say the TSA began developing the Large Aircraft Standard Security Programme as a companion to the "Twelve-five" security programme that covers Part 135 charter aircraft with maximum take-off weights of more than 5,680kg (12,500lb).

Source: Flight International