Airport Security Coordinator Responsibilities

Airport Security Coordinators (ASC) need access to the TSA secure WebBoard for security directives, information circulars, criminal history checks, threat assessments, and other secure communications.

Airport Security Coordinators are responsible for airport security program compliance, including reviewing the Airport Security Program Guide, and 49 CFR 1542 Implementation Guide.

The Airport Security Coordinator (ASC) must be available to the TSA 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year round.

ASC's often appoint assistant ASCs (sometimes called "Alternate ASCs") to handle certain duties, including being on-call to the TSA, managing processes (badging, authorized signatories), and managing security officer workforce, in order to meet the 24/7 availability requirement.

This document outlines the regulatory intent and compliance requirements of Airport Security regulations.

A bombing attack on Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988, killing numerous people.

A military-grade explosive used in the Pan Am 103 bombing.

The process of inspecting baggage put into the cargo hold of an aircraft.

The involved group responsible for the Pan Am 103 bombing via their personnel.

Requires airline screening process for domestic flights in 1973.

An international body that sets aviation security policies and practices.

Former US agency responsible for aviation security before 2001.

US agency that now handles aviation security, established after 9/11

Airport Security Coordinators (ASCs) implement security procedures, enforce policies, oversee Sensitive Security Information (SSI), and manage Criminal History Record Checks (CHRCs).

ASCs need strong communication skills to implement security procedures and policies that airport tenants may not like.

ASCs at Category X and I airports have limited other duties, as aviation security functions are significant.

ASCs must be trustworthy, handling Sensitive Security Information (SSI) and Criminal History Record Checks (CHRCs).

Airport directors may choose a law enforcement officer as the ASC, but this presents a cost-benefit issue (taking an officer off patrol).

Some airports hire civilians as the primary ASC, with a law enforcement officer as an associate ASC to maintain law enforcement relations.

The TSA doesn't specify required ASC qualifications or job title, instead focusing on an airport designating personnel.

ASCs may have additional responsibilities in airport safety, particularly at smaller airports where the Airport Director may assume ASC duties.

Aircraft bombings and hijackings are considered the main threats to aviation.

ASCs should attend industry seminars and subscribe to publications and digital feeds (like AAAE's SmartBrief) to remain updated on developments in aviation security.

The process of checking passengers, carry-on and checked bags to prevent weapons/explosives on aircraft.

Primarily responsible for passenger and baggage screening in the US, including inspections for weapons/explosives.

When TSA hires a private contractor to handle parts of passenger screening.

Part of a Security Management System (SeMS), similar to Safety Management Systems but focused on security.

Aims to reduce aircraft hijacking/bombing risks by screening passengers and carry-on bags.

Reduces the risk of bombing on aircraft by inspecting baggage destined for the cargo hold.

A law passed in 2001 that reformed aviation security after 9/11, including creating the TSA and changing screener workforce.

The U.S. government agency responsible for aviation security, established after 9/11.

A position created for each airport that oversees passenger and baggage screening, ensuring airport compliance with regulations.

Air marshals, personnel on planes to mitigate threats.

A computer system for passenger pre-screening, assisting in security.

Aviation Security was handled by FAA and various private contractors.

A computer system implemented after TWA 800 to flag passengers as higher risk based on certain booking indicators.

A person designated to oversee airport security at commercial service airports.

A requirement to screen all checked baggage by a specific date.

A method of screening checked baggage by correlating passenger information with baggage data.

Requirement that airports create procedures to screen everyone entering secure areas.

Requirement to screen cargo carried on commercial aircraft.

Deployment of all TSA screening personnel by a specific date.

Aircraft operators are responsible for ensuring only screened persons and items board their aircraft.

Cooperative efforts with the federal government are the best approach to airport security.

Different airports may interpret regulations and guidance documents differently, leading to varied security practices.

The ACE-Security program is divided into four modules focusing on aviation security, airport security, aircraft operations/screening, and security management.

A guide outlining actions for airport security compliance, often interpreted differently by airports.

Provides guidance for airport security programs, although interpretations differ across airports.

Directives containing policies and processes that are often publicly available through research.

An example of a security process outlined in a security directive but widely available through public sources.

The exam content is limited to the information contained within the modules of the ACE-Security program.

The program is offered in self-study, a three-day review course, or a three-day on-site course.

Acts of violence using bombs or bomb threats against airline offices, airports, or aircraft.

In the 1950s-60s, some bombings were to collect insurance money after the incident.

Convicted for bombing a 1955 flight, motivated by a life insurance scam.

A suspected case of a person using a bomb in carry-on luggage to commit suicide.

A suspected suicide bomber on National Airlines Flight 251115 who is suspected to have rigged a bomb.

Threats beyond bombings, such as active shooters, surface-to-air missiles, and other attacks.

Crimes like drug smuggling, theft, assault, and human trafficking are additional threats to airport security.

Groups motivated by political motives that may attack airports or aircraft.

Countries with the potential for malicious intent to disrupt aviation.

A 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing many.

A military-grade explosive used in the 1988 Pan Am bombing.

Inspection of baggage checked into the aircraft's cargo hold.

The group behind the bombing, employing individuals disguised as airline staff.

Matching passenger and baggage information to identify potential problems.

A law that mandated screening for domestic flights.

International aviation security policies and standards created by UN.

Former US aviation security agency before 2001.

US aviation security agency, formed after 9/11.

Difficulties in responding to the attacks at the World Trade Center, including delayed evacuations and ineffective security systems.

The response to the attacks at the World Trade Center, including contrasting evacuation strategies by different companies.

A security measure correlating passenger information with baggage data to check for inconsistencies.

Aviation security procedures and systems before the 9/11 attacks, which, in retrospect, had weaknesses.

A computer system for screening passengers based on certain booking indicators.

Passengers flagged by the CAPPS system as potentially higher security risks.

Prioritizing bomber detection over hijackers, inconsistent checkpoint screening, and lacking in-flight security features were key aviation security flaws.

Many responders descended on the World Trade Center towers within 20 minutes, coordinating massive rescue efforts. 9/11 also saw successes in rescue work and mitigation.

Airport security measure enacted after the Oklahoma City and WTC bombings to prevent Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs).

Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device, a bomb placed inside a vehicle.

LAX airport security includes armed police officers performing targeted and random vehicle searches.

2007 attempted bombing of Glasgow Airport terminal using a SUV filled with explosives.

Light, single-engine airplane, frequently used in flight training.

A successful airport bombing results in numerous casualties, significant economic losses, and severe safety regulations and infrastructure changes.

November 1, 2013, active shooter attack at Los Angeles International Airport, killing a TSA officer and injuring multiple others.

Methods implemented to reduce the chance of an airport attack, include training personnel, frequent patrols and vulnerability assessments.

A 2001 law that significantly reformed aviation security, following 9/11 attacks, by creating the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and transitioning screener workforce to federal employees.

The US government agency responsible for air travel security, established after 9/11.

A position at each airport, managing passenger and baggage screening, insuring airport compliance with regulations.

Air marshals deployed on aircraft to enhance security by mitigating threats.

Aviation security before 9/11 was handled by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and private contractors.

A computer system for screening passengers, assisting in security.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and military lacked protocols and capabilities for a coordinated response to multiple hijackings and suicidal hijackers, pre-ATSA.

The primary point of contact for the TSA at an airport, responsible for ensuring compliance with aviation security regulations.

Maintaining airport security, building relationships with agencies, and guiding the application of new security measures. They are the go-to person.

Serves as the airport's primary contact for security with TSA, is available 24/7, reviews security functions regularly for compliance, and initiates corrective actions for non-compliance.

The role of the ASC significantly expanded after 9/11, going from a collateral duty to a primary contact for ongoing changes required for security.

The ASC is expected to keep the airport compliant with security regulations, crucial to avoiding costly civil penalties.

The ASC plays a role in guiding implementation of new security technologies, measures, and procedures, particularly with evolving threats.

ASCs should build relationships with different tiers of agencies (Federal, State, Local) and other airport stakeholders (tenants and carriers).

The person responsible for airport security program compliance.

Potential dangers to aircraft, airports, and aviation personnel.

A multi-level approach to aviation security involving multiple layers of defense.

Law passed in 2001 to reform aviation security after 9/11.

U.S. government agency responsible for aviation security.

Airport position overseeing passenger and baggage screening, insuring airport compliance with regulations.

Aviation security procedures and systems before the 9/11 attacks.

Optimal methods for airport security, involving coordinated efforts with federal government.

Requires screening at U.S. airports.

Regulations that dictate specifics of airport security compliance.

Comprehensive certification program for airport security personnel.

Contain federal aviation security policies and processes.

Requiring the screening of every checked bag.

Airport Security Coordinators (ASCs) need access to the TSA secure WebBoard for security directives, information circulars, criminal history checks, threat assessments, and secure communications.

The Airport Security Coordinator (ASC) must be available to the TSA 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year.

To meet the 24/7 requirement, ASCs often appoint assistant ASCs (sometimes called 'Alternate ASCs') to handle certain duties including on-call status, badging, authorized signatories, and security officer management.

This guide explains the requirements for airport security compliance and the intent behind the regulations, replacing previous guides.

ASCs need the TSA secure WebBoard for security directives, information circulars, and secure communication.

Situations at an airport that differ from the Airport Security Program (ASP), requiring notification to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

The main point of contact for the TSA at an airport, responsible for security compliance.

A plan outlining security procedures and protocols for an airport.

Process to adjust the Airport Security Program (ASP), especially for airport changes.

A background check to assess the past criminal history of airport workers.

A badge granting access to secure areas of an airport building and its services.

A person permitted to walk through an airport without a guard or supervisor

ASC handles employee background investigations, processing the results for airport badge access, and handles inquiries about potential criminal record corrections.

Maintaining airport security, building relationships with agencies, and guiding the application of new security measures: the go-to person.

A 1972 attack where Japanese Red Army members used automatic weapons, killing 26 and injuring 80.

1985 attacks by armed groups using guns and grenades, primarily targeting El Al ticket counters.

An active shooter incident that occurred in 2013 at LAX killing a TSA officer and wounding others.

Attacks using missiles, often MANPADS, against civilian aircraft, typically during conflicts.

Shoulder-launched heat-seeking missiles, a common threat.

Attacks by individuals (lone wolves, groups, or those with mental impairment), pose a threat at airports, but not as uniformly as other environments like schools or businesses have experienced.

Airports may have a better chance to react to an active shooter due to existing security personnel.

Devices used for security screening, also known as 'puffers'.

Whole-body scanners used for security screening.

A type of small general aviation aircraft, part of a plot to crash it into CIA headquarters.

Target of an assassination attempt in a plot alongside a planned attack on President William Clinton.

Targeted in an assassination attempt alongside a plot involving Pope John Paul.

A plot involving explosives and assassinations. This was exposed via a fire in the bomb-making lab.

A small airplane that crashed near the White House.

An attempted attack on the Eiffel Tower using an Air France jetliner.

Columbine killer with a plot to hijack and crash an aircraft into New York City.

A fictional novel about a flight captain hijacking and crashing a Boeing 747 into the US Capitol.

Intrepid hijacker with a unique plan and a new way to handle crime and terrorism in aviation.

Hijackers usually tried to force pilots to crash the plane.

ASCs oversee airport security, ensuring airport compliance with regulations, including drafting the Airport Security Program (ASP) and related memorandums. This includes reviewing security functions, access control systems, and emergency plans. ASCs must fix any non-compliance immediately.

Airport security personnel must be trained in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) - at least levels 100, 200, and 700. Those in incident management roles need 300 and 400 training.

A program created by the ASC which sets out specific rules & procedures to ensure security at the airport that needs to adhere to TSA standards.

All airport security elements need to be reviewed regularly and checked against security regulations and TSA guidelines to make sure all functions are both compliant and work effectively.

ASCs must immediately correct any problems or instances of non-compliance with the Airport Security Program (ASP) and any related rules.

ASCs frequently exchange personal details with TSA personnel(FSD and TSI's) who handle airport security and regulatory matters.

Airport Security Coordinators (ASCs) are responsible for ensuring airport security complies with regulations, liaising with air carriers, managing access control, and cybersecurity.

Criminal offenses that prevent an individual from receiving access to airport security areas.

The ASC is responsible for verifying that applicants for access have not been convicted of disqualifying offenses, or found not guilty by reason of insanity.

An ASC must communicate and share information with air carrier station managers.

A security philosophy emphasizing taking control of what is possible to prevent attacks, not being complacent.

Early hijackings were mainly to collect money by holding passengers hostage, often escaping to a foreign country with the aircraft.

Later hijackings, especially those by terrorist groups, were often about getting global attention for a cause, pressuring a nation to release prisoners, or otherwise force a certain action.

A passenger hijacked a plane, ordering the crew to fly until it ran out of fuel threatening a crash.

Three accused rapists took over a flight threatening to crash it into a nuclear power plant.

An armed man attempted to crash a Delta Airlines flight into the White House.

A US Army private hijacked a helicopter, flying it to the White House.

A rare attempt to crash a plane into a specific ground target.

A Romanian Airlines flight where three crew were murdered in 1947.

Forced to fly a hijacker in a tense standoff and was the victim of a second hijacking.

Machines used to detect explosives, but with high failure rates and replaced by Automated Imaging Technology (AIT).

A whole-body scanner system used for security screening, replacing the less effective PTDs.

A bombing attack on the World Trade Center, connected to the plot of an individual who eventually was caught and convicted.

A light general aviation aircraft, part of a plot to crash into CIA headquarters in a terrorist attack.

Air France jet hijacking plan to crash into the Eiffel Tower by the Armed Islamic Group.

Columbine killer plan to hijack an aircraft and crash it into New York City.

A notorious hijacker in the 1970s, highlighting evolving crime and terrorism methods in aviation.

Hijackers typically tried to force pilots to crash the aircraft, rather than piloting it themselves.

Aircraft hijackings and bombings were the main threats to aviation security before 9/11.

A light, single-engine aircraft type frequently in use for flight training and potentially for terrorist attack.

The pilot-in-command is responsible for cabin security, according to air carrier and federal regulations.

Hijackers might create a cabin disturbance to lure a flight crew member and gain access to the cockpit.

Hijackers may have flown the same routes to study cockpit procedures before the attacks.

Some hijackers were on watch lists (CIA), but their information wasn't properly shared with FAA.

Even with CAPPS28, hijackers' bags only had to accompany them, not undergo full screening.

Prior to 9/11, airline security focused more on preventing bombings than hijackings.

At one airport, hijackers triggered metal detectors, but subsequent hand-wanding procedures were insufficient.

All hijackers held Commercial Pilot certificates, had sufficient flight time, and simulated flights in similar aircraft.

Emergency response is a result of preparedness, according to the 9/11 Commission.