US seeks to bring general aviation under the security scanner
11 Aug 2008
Washington: The Transportation Security Administration a US government agency that protects the nation's transportation systems is planning a massive expansion of aviation security that will for the first time begin to regulate thousands of private jets which are currently flying with no security rules.
The new regulations are expected to be put up for public perusal in the coming months.
Authorities are worried that terrorists may transport hazardous materials or themselves on private jets, according to Michal Morgan, TSA head of general aviation security.
Through the proposals, the TSA will seek to regulate roughly 15,000 private planes that serve the general aviation industry, a fast and convenient alternative to commercial flights. These planes fly in a network of 4,700 small airports, almost 10 times the number of commercial airports. They offer many conveniences to passengers, including few or no delays.
Industry sources say that the new regulations will probably seek to check backgrounds of flight crews, parking planes in secure areas and inspection of aircraft.
US department of Homeland Security has recently voiced concerns about terrorists using private jets. The department has proposed background checks of people flying on private planes into the country, and is looking at tightening security for small airports.
