TSA to Receive GA Input on Future Security Measures

With an amendment last week to the Transportation Security Administration Authorization Act, the aviation industry will now be able to review and provide input on proposed TSA security measures. Under amendment to H.R.2200, a new Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC) will be formed. It will include a group of aviation industry stakeholders and a general aviation working group. The language of the amendment limits the TSA’s ability to get around the normal Administrative Procedures Act rulemaking process by issuing Security Directives. The most recent SD involved requiring badges for pilots to access areas of airports that have commercial service. The SD was steeply criticized for its vagueness and potential operational and economic impact. Under the new amendment, the TSA must work within the rules of the Administrative Procedures Act unless an imminent threat exists. Only then can an SD be issued without passing through regular rulemaking channels. Another measure issued as part of the new amendment prohibits TSA from allowing third parties to review terror watch lists. This was part of the proposed Large Aircraft Security Program.