View Rule

Statement of Need: This rule would enhance current security measures, and would apply security measures currently in place for operators of certain types of aircraft, to operators of other aircraft. While the focus of TSA’s existing aviation security programs has been on air carriers and commercial operators, TSA is aware that general aviation aircraft of sufficient size and weight may inflict significant damage and loss of lives if they are hijacked and used as missiles. TSA has current regulations that apply to large aircraft operated by air carriers and commercial operators, including the twelve five program, the partial program, and the private charter program. However, the current regulations do not cover all general aviation operations, such as those operated by corporations and individuals, and such operations do not have the features that are necessary to enhance security.

Alternatives: DHS considered continuing to use voluntary guidance to secure general aviation, but determined that to ensure that each aircraft operator maintains an appropriate level of security, these security measures would need to be mandatory requirements.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits: This proposed rule would yield benefits in the areas of security and quality governance. The rule would enhance security by expanding the mandatory use of security measures to certain operators of large aircraft that are not currently required to have a security plan. These measures would deter malicious individuals from perpetrating acts that might compromise transportation or national security by using large aircraft for these purposes. In the NPRM, TSA estimated the total 10-year cost of the program would be $1.3 billion, discounted at 7 percent. Aircraft operators, airport operators, and TSA would incur costs to comply with the requirements of the proposed Large Aircraft Security Program rule. Aircraft operator costs comprise 85 percent of all estimated expenses. TSA estimated approximately 9,000 general aviation aircraft operators use aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 12,500 pounds, and would be newly subjected to the proposed rule.

Risks: This rulemaking addresses the national security risk of general aviation aircraft being used as a weapon or as a means to transport persons or weapons that could pose a threat to the United States.