Transportation Security Administration - Aircraft Operator Security

Issued March 11, 2010 | On File at Federal Register March 15, 2010

Intent to Request Renewal from OMB of One Current Public Collection of Information

The Transportation Security Administration invites public comment on an existing information collection requirement abstracted below that will be submitted to the Office of Management and Budget for renewal in compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act. The collection requires aircraft operators to adopt and implement a TSA-approved security program. These programs require aircraft operators to maintain and update records to ensure compliance with security provisions outlined in 49 CFR part 1544.

The information requested of aircraft operators has increased due to the security measures mandated by the Federal Government since September 11, 2001. The information TSA now collects include identifying information on aircraft operators’ flight crews and passengers. Specifically, TSA requires aircraft operators to submit the following information: (1) A master crew list of all flight and cabin crew members flying to and from the United States; (2) the flight crew list on a flight-by-flight basis; (3) passenger information on a flight-by-flight basis; (4) total amount of cargo screened; (5) total amount of cargo screened at 100%; and (6) total amount of cargo screened at 50%. Aircraft operators are required to provide this information via electronic means. Aircraft operators with limited electronic systems may need to modify their current systems or generate a new computer system in order to submit the requested information but are not restricted to these means. Under this regulation, aircraft operators must ensure that flight crew members and employees with unescorted access authority or who perform screening, checked baggage or cargo functions submit to and receive a criminal history records check. As part of the CHRC process, the individual must provide identifying information, including fingerprints. Additionally, aircraft operators must maintain these records and make them available to TSA for inspection and copying upon request.

By: Joanna Johnson