Aero News Network
10/10/2008   

(See also, accompanying story "TSA Unveils Security Restrictions On Large Aircraft Requires Implementation Of "Approved" Programs )

Add two more aviation "letter groups" to the list of those which plan to
carefully review Thursday's notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) issued by
the Transportation Security Administration, regarding sweeping changes to
security requirements on all aircraft over 12,500 lbs MTOW.

Noting his organization has worked with TSA officials for many months to
educate the agency on the requirements of business aviation operators -- as
well as the many voluntary security programs already undertaken by many of
those companies -- Ed Bolen, president and CEO of the National Business
Aviation Association, said NBAA will scrutinize the 260-page NPRM, to
ensure it reflects the twin needs for security and mobility that are
hallmarks of business aviation.

"We've been discussing the TSA's security plans with our members, and
keeping them apprised of our ongoing efforts to maintain that vital balance
between the need to strengthen aviation security and to preserve the
mobility and flexibility that are at the foundation of business aviation,"
Bolen (above) said. "We will review [the NPRM] carefully, consulting with
NBAA's Security Council and coordinating with our members to comment on
this plan.

"Based on an initial review, we expect to file substantial comments on the
proposal," Bolen added.

As ANN reported, the proposed TSA regulations would cover aircraft with a
maximum certified takeoff weight (MTOW) above 12,500 pounds, and the
general aviation (GA) airports that serve these larger aircraft. Known as
the Large Aircraft Security Program (LASP), the TSA plan includes security
training for flight crews, periodic security audits for operators, and
requirements for GA and other airports that service large aircraft.

NBAA plans to conduct a series of Town Hall meetings across the country to
solicit Member input.

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) also weighed in on
the NPRM, with GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce noting "the security of
the US and global aviation system is of utmost concern to the general
aviation industry. Therefore, we appreciate that the TSA has undertaken a
rulemaking process which will allow for comment from the members of our
industry.

"GAMA will be reviewing this NPRM to ensure that it addresses potential
security risks with methods of compliance that do not restrict the utility
of general aviation aircraft," Bunce said. "Measured against this standard,
our initial read of the NPRM concerns us in that some very burdensome
requirements may not provide commensurate security benefits to an already
safe and secure industry."

In a note of measure optimism, Bunce added, "We look forward to continued
participation in this deliberative process, constructively working with TSA
and other stakeholders to meet legitimate security concerns in effective,
practical ways."