NPRM Endorses Creation Of "All-Cargo" Security Program

NATA says it supports a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) proposal to address cargo security using a risk-based approach.

The TSA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), believed to be the agency's first, announced formation of a new "All-Cargo" security program for larger cargo aircraft and several other new security initiatives for the cargo industry. "We are particularly pleased that the TSA issued this as an NPRM, so that industry input is received prior to implementation of new regulations. The TSA's trend of direct to final rules appears to have finally subsided," explained NATA Vice President Eric R. Byer. 

The association agreed with the TSA's assessment that a risk management philosophy is the best approach to securing cargo carried on aircraft.

"This approach recognizes that 100% screening of all cargo is not only impractical but would cause incalculable damage to the nation's economy," Byer said. "The layered approach to security will allow both government and industry to direct resources to those areas with the greatest risk that can then derive the greatest security benefit."

For the smaller cargo carriers represented by NATA, the TSA intends to continue compliance with the Twelve-Five Standard Security Program (TFSSP). The NPRM proposes that any all-cargo aircraft weighing more than 45,500 kg will comply with the new All-Cargo program. Most all-cargo aircraft currently subject to the TFSSP are small businesses operating as Part 135 on-demand air carriers.
 
"We believe, and the TSA concurs, that the TFSSP imposes the proper security level by recognizing that these carriers' smaller size and operational environment create a different security risk profile than that of the large aircraft cargo haulers," Byer said.

Of concern to NATA was a proposed expansion of security areas, known as SIDAs, to include cargo areas at certain airports already subject to security regulations. NATA believes the costs for this proposal and the potential safety impacts for nearby general aviation areas have not been adequately considered by the TSA.

NATA's comments also suggested some changes to the proposed rules to clarify the regulatory intent and prevent confusion within the industry.

FMI: www.nata.aero