Transportation Security Administration Message

TSA wants to remind general aviation aircraft and airport operators to review the security measures contained in the TSA Information Publication, Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airports (available at http://www.tsa.gov/public/interapp/editorial/editorial_1113.xml), and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association?s Airport Watch Program materials (available at www.aopa.org/airportwatch). In addition, general aviation aircraft and airport operators are encouraged to consider the following:

  • Secure unattended aircraft to prevent unauthorized use.
  • Verify the identification of crew and passengers prior to departure.
  • Verify that baggage and cargo are known to the persons on board.
  • Where identification systems are in place, encourage employees to wear proper identification and challenge persons not wearing proper identification.
  • Direct increased vigilance to unknown pilots and/or clients for aircraft or helicopter rental or charters ? as well as unknown service/delivery personnel.
  • Be alert/aware of and report persons masquerading as pilots, security personnel, emergency medical technicians, or other personnel using uniforms and/or vehicles as methods to gain access to aviation facilities or aircraft.
  • Be alert/aware of and report aircraft with unusual or unauthorized modifications.
  • Be alert/aware of and report persons loitering in the vicinity of aircraft or air operations areas ? as well as persons loading unusual or unauthorized payload onto aircraft.
  • Be alert/aware of and report persons who appear to be under stress or the control of other persons.
  • Be alert/aware of and report persons whose identification appears altered or inconsistent.

    Persons should report suspicious activity immediately to local law enforcement and the TSA General Aviation Hotline at 866-GASECUR (866-427-3287).