The TSA on November 17 released a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to strengthen aircraft repair station security. The proposed regulation has been
in the works since 2003, when Congress ordered the agency to develop security requirements for repair facilities. The proposed regulation would require FAA-
certified foreign and domestic repair stations to adopt and carry out a standard TSA security program to safeguard the security of a repair station, the repair work conducted and all aircraft and aircraft components at the station. Under the proposed rule, certified stations would need to implement strict access controls, provide security awareness training and allow for Department of Homeland Security inspections. One of the contentious issues within the industry is that aircraft repair stations vary widely in size, type of repair work performed, number of employees and proximity to an airport. Comments on the proposed rule are due by January 16.