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Security Information for Flight Schools and Flight Training Providers

General Aviation

The Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continue to monitor reports on potential terrorist threats in the United States. Based on a recent interagency review of available information, we remain concerned about Al-Qaeda's continued efforts to plan multiple attacks against the United States. These attacks may involve aviation. 

Recently, an aviation related incident was reported surrounding suspicious activities at flight schools. At this point there is no indication that this occurrence is terrorist related, however, we request airport managers, flight schools, flight training providers, and aircraft operators remain vigilant for suspicious behavior and activities.  

TSA reminds general aviation aircraft and airport owners and operators to review the security measures contained in the TSA Information Publication, Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airports and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s Airport Watch Program materials. In addition, general aviation aircraft and airport owners and operators are encouraged to consider the following:

• Secure unattended aircraft to prevent unauthorized use.
• Verify the identification of crew and passengers prior to departure.
• Verify that baggage and cargo are known to the persons on board.
• Where identification systems are in place, encourage employees to wear proper identification and challenge persons not wearing proper identification.
• Direct increased vigilance to unknown pilots and/or clients for aircraft rental or charters – as well as unknown service/delivery personnel.
• Be alert/aware of and report persons masquerading as pilots, security personnel, emergency medical technicians, or other personnel using uniforms and/or vehicles as methods to gain access to aviation facilities or aircraft.
• Be alert/aware of and report aircraft with unusual or unauthorized modifications.
• Be alert/aware of and report persons loitering in the vicinity of aircraft or air operations areas – as well as persons loading unusual or unauthorized payload onto aircraft.
• Be alert/aware of and report persons who appear to be under stress or the control of other persons.
• Be alert/aware of and report persons whose identification appears altered or inconsistent.

The theft of any General Aviation aircraft should be immediately reported to the appropriate authorities and the TSA General Aviation Hotline at 866-GASECUR (866-427-3287). In addition, persons should report any suspicious activity immediately to local law enforcement and the TSA General Aviation Hotline.

Download a printable version of this advisory. Security Information for Flight Schools and Flight Training Providers (pdf, 43kb)