TSA issues security action items for FBOs

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued updated security action items (SAIs) for FBOs. The agency has not yet issued specific rules mandating security measures at FBOs, and these SAIs are basically the same as the guidelines that the TSA published in 2004, but reorganized to be more applicable to FBOs. This guidance, which is not regulatory, addresses ramp security, aircraft security, transient pilot monitoring and reporting of suspicious activity.

The TSA also wants FBOs to designate primary and alternate security coordinators who are trained in security issues. The agency emphasized, “The main goal of enhancing FBO security is to prevent the intentional misuse of GA aircraft for terrorist purposes.” Many FBOs are paying more attention to security, including verifying identities of flight crew before allowing them on the ramp and escorting passengers to their aircraft. Some FBOs, such as Signature Flight Support at Boston Logan International Airport, have implemented full airline-style X-ray screening for ramp-side access. The TSA’s current SAIs are available at www.tsa.gov/assets/pdf/ga_fbo.pdf.