Corporate Aviation Security
Airlines seem to get all the attention regarding security warnings, but business aviation is a target for terrorist activity too. Corporate aviation security is an important part of keeping our skies safe and pilots should pay attention to the best practices suggested by security experts.
Security Programs
There are several security programs in place for general aviation. Most are a result of the 9/11 tragedy and strive to prevent anything like that from ever happening again, even with general aviation aircraft. The following programs are now in place:
- Twelve-Five Standard Security Program (TFSSP) – Required for air charter operators using aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight of more than 12,500 pounds. It involves criminal history checks on flight crew and eliminating passenger access to the flight deck.
- Private Charter Standard Security Program (PCSSP) – Required for Parts 121, 125, and 135 operators using aircraft with 61 or more seats. Passengers and their bags must be screened before boarding.
- DCA Access Standard Security Program (DASSP) – Restricts general aviation access to DCA without TSA Authorization.
- Flight Training Candidate Checks Program (FTCCP) – Requires the screening of aliens seeking flight training.
Security Risk Assessment for Business Aviation
The NBAA has developed and implemented a simple product for assessing risk in various aviation-related fields. It does not require security training, so it can be used by anyone in any organization. It covers damage to aircraft, threats to personnel, identification and documentation vulnerabilities, and public relations exposure.
Business Aviation Security Best Practices
The following best practices are either voluntary or regulatory to prevent terrorism threats:
- The Airport Watch Program encourages pilots to report suspicious activity.
- Aircraft manufacturers and sales personnel have procedures to report suspicious financial transactions during aircraft sales.
- Flight training personnel comply with strict standards to screen non-US citizens looking for flight training.
- The FAA issues tamper-proof aviation licenses.
- Law enforcement agencies cross check airman registries against known terrorists.
- Charter business aircraft over 12,500 pounds must comply with mandated security procedures.
Aviation Cybersecurity
While technological advances have helped improve efficiency and safety in general aviation, the increase in digital tools have placed both aircraft and passengers at increased risk. But there are steps that companies can take to protect their pilots and passengers:
- Based on location and operation, assess the level of risk for aircraft and mobile devices.
- Formal policies should be developed for using, storing, and sharing flight department data.
- There should be best practices for using devices away from the home network, especially during international travel.
- Public distribution of aircraft photos and registration data should be prohibited.
- Establish social media and network policies that prevent the risk of leaking sensitive data.
Paying attention to Corporate Aviation Security is the first step toward reducing the threat of terrorism or other dangerous behavior. Following established safety procedures will go a long way toward protecting our passengers in the air and even innocent people on the ground. Reporting suspicious behavior, regardless of how insignificant it may appear, is the best way to keep us all safe.
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