Aircraft Operator Security

This final rule amends the existing airplane operator security rule. It revises the applicability section, definitions, and terms; reorganizes this part into subparts containing related requirements; and incorporates some requirements already implemented in the air carrier standard security program. Specifically, this final rule increases the number of aircraft operators that must have security programs, to include all that enplane from or deplane into a sterile area and certain helicopter operators. This final rule expands the training requirements for aircraft operator security personnel. Further, this final rule clarifies the procedures for carriage of prisoners under the control of armed law enforcement officers, procedures for carriage of weapons by law enforcement officers, and procedures for aircraft operators to comment on security directives issued by the FAA. This rule requires aircraft operators to participate in the airport sponsored contingency exercise or its equivalent. As part 108 applies to operators of rotorcraft as well as fixed-wing aircraft, this final rule changes the title of this part from "Airplane Operator Security" to "Aircraft Operator Security." This final rule contains changes that are intended to enhance security for the traveling public, and aircraft operators.