Airport Security Coordinator Responsibilities

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary responsibility of the ASC regarding communication with the TSA?

To receive and communicate secure information (correct)

To handle all public relations for the airport

To oversee all airport maintenance activities

To manage the TSA’s training programs

What common challenge does the ASC face in maintaining availability to the TSA?

Excessive governmental regulations

Logistical improbabilities due to staffing and duties (correct)

Limited access to the TSA secure WebBoard

Having to constantly update security technology

Which of the following documents can the ASC access via the WebBoard?

The Passenger Screening Manual

The National Security Strategy

The TSA Travel Procedures Guide

The Airport Security Program Guide (correct)

Which position is often created for practical reasons related to the ASC's duties?

Assistant ASC Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the duties that assistant ASCs typically manage?

Managing the badging office Signup and view all the answers

What is a key responsibility of an Airport Security Coordinator (ASC) regarding Sensitive Security Information (SSI)?

They oversee the handling and protection of SSI. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following would typically NOT be a duty of an ASC at high-category airports?

Conducting regular safety inspections. Signup and view all the answers

What type of individual do some airport directors believe should serve as an ASC?

A law enforcement officer. Signup and view all the answers

What is one major threat to aviation mentioned in the content?

Aircraft bombings. Signup and view all the answers

Which organizations' publications or events could an ASC follow for industry updates?

American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). Signup and view all the answers

Why might airport management decide to assign civilians to manage point-control tasks?

To relieve law enforcement officers from administrative duties. Signup and view all the answers

What is the TSA's stance regarding the designation of airport personnel as ASCs?

The TSA does not regulate who must be designated as an ASC. Signup and view all the answers

At smaller airports, who might also act as the ASC?

The Airport Director. Signup and view all the answers

Who holds the primary responsibility for screening passengers and their baggage?

Aircraft Operators in collaboration with TSA Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of passenger and carry-on bag screening?

To reduce the likelihood of hijacking or bombing Signup and view all the answers

How must aircraft operators conduct screening outside of the U.S. and its territories?

They can use a foreign government, air carrier, or contractor Signup and view all the answers

What is a Security Risk Assessment part of in aviation security?

Security Management System (SeMS) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of checked bag screening in the aviation security system?

To prevent the aircraft from being bombed Signup and view all the answers

Which Title governs the aircraft operator security measures in the United States?

Title 49 CFR Part 1544 Signup and view all the answers

What is the Screening Partnership Program also known as?

Opt-out program Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of security does a Security Management System (SeMS) focus on?

Security measures Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for the failure of Pan Am to conduct a positive passenger bag match in 1988?

Lack of legal requirement at the time Signup and view all the answers

What type of explosive was used in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103?

Semtex Signup and view all the answers

Which significant change in aviation security occurred as a direct result of the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing?

The requirement for all airlines to screen checked baggage was implemented Signup and view all the answers

Who was ultimately found responsible for the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103?

Libyan intelligence operatives Signup and view all the answers

Which organization was established to address aviation security and arose after the Pan Am Flight 103 incident?

Associate Administrator for Aviation Security within the FAA Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the advocacy group formed after the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing?

It had a significant influence on aviation security policy-making Signup and view all the answers

What type of baggage was the bomb concealed in on Pan Am Flight 103?

Checked baggage Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of ICAO in aviation security before the establishment of TSA?

Setting global policies and practices for aviation security Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001?

To transition airport screeners to federal employees and enhance security measures Signup and view all the answers

What position was established for each commercial service airport through the Aviation and Transportation Security Act?

Federal Security Director Signup and view all the answers

Before the enactment of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act, who was primarily responsible for security inspections at commercial airports?

FAA’s Civil Aviation Security Field Office Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant reason for the increase in personnel within the TSA following the Aviation and Transportation Security Act?

The need to manage security staffing for over 80,000 personnel Signup and view all the answers

What role did the Federal Air Marshals (FAM) program play before the events of 9/11?

It had significantly reduced its numbers and was close to being retired Signup and view all the answers

What did the Federal Security Director approve at commercial airports as part of their responsibilities?

Airport Security Program Signup and view all the answers

How were airport security screeners managed prior to the establishment of the Transportation Security Administration?

They were managed by private contractors hired by airlines Signup and view all the answers

What significant change did the Aviation and Transportation Security Act implement regarding the screener workforce?

Made TSA responsible for the screening workforce, moving to federal employees Signup and view all the answers

What was the main purpose of CAPPS when it was implemented?

To identify passengers with potential higher risk. Signup and view all the answers

Which requirement regarding baggage screening did the TSA encounter difficulties in meeting?

Manufacturing sufficient screening equipment by the deadline. Signup and view all the answers

What does the legislation imply regarding the function of the FSD at airports?

They oversee security at multiple airports due to operational impracticalities. Signup and view all the answers

What was the alternative used by the TSA to define 'screened' baggage by the deadline?

Positive Passenger Bag Match. Signup and view all the answers

Who holds the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that no un-screened person or item is placed on an aircraft?

The aircraft operators of the airlines. Signup and view all the answers

What significant requirement related to checked baggage was established for December 31, 2002?

100% screening of checked baggage. Signup and view all the answers

What did the legislation mandate regarding cargo carried on commercial airliners?

Cargo screening procedures should be implemented as soon as practicable. Signup and view all the answers

What was discovered about the on-site presence of FSDs at commercial airports?

Not all commercial airports have their FSD present on-site. Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary motivation behind early aviation bombings in the 50s and 60s?

Monetary gain through insurance fraud Signup and view all the answers

Who was Julian Frank suspected of running a scam for, leading to his actions in 1960?

A charity organization Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the change in purpose behind airline bombings in the late 60s?

Transitioning from personal gain to political statements Signup and view all the answers

Which group was NOT mentioned as a potential attacker in aviation incidents?

International sports teams Signup and view all the answers

What kind of criminal activity must Airport Security Coordinators be aware of at airports?

Day-to-day crimes such as theft and drug smuggling Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome for Jack Graham following the bombing incident he orchestrated in 1955?

He was convicted and executed Signup and view all the answers

What action followed the demands sparked by the 1960 bombing associated with Julian Frank?

Calls for comprehensive baggage inspection Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines the term 'lone-wolf' in the context of airport attacks?

An individual acting alone due to personal grievances Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of the ACE-Security program modules?

Regulations and best practices for airport security Signup and view all the answers

Which process is included as an example of widely available public domain information related to airport security procedures?

The 3-1-1 rule for carry-on baggage Signup and view all the answers

What key difference in regulation interpretation can occur at different airports?

Different applications of security regulations Signup and view all the answers

What option does the ACE-Security program NOT provide for its participants?

Comprehensive review guide Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant aspect of the ACE-Security exam?

Rooted only in the program modules Signup and view all the answers

Which method is encouraged for participants in the ACE-Security program when reviewing security information?

Engaging with local security personnel insights Signup and view all the answers

How does the AAAE view the relationship between airport officials and the federal government regarding security practices?

Cooperation is essential for best practices Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'non-SSI program' refer to in the context of the ACE-Security program?

A program where sensitive security information is not included Signup and view all the answers

What was the explosive used in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103?

Semtex Signup and view all the answers

Which organization was created in response to the Pan Am Flight 103 disaster?

Associate Administrator for Aviation Security Signup and view all the answers

What baggage screening requirement was implemented by the United Kingdom following the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing?

Checked baggage screening Signup and view all the answers

What was one significant factor that led to the Pan Am Flight 103 disaster?

Neglecting positive passenger bag match procedures Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the Families of the Victims of Pan Am 103 advocacy group?

To influence aviation security policy-making Signup and view all the answers

Which security agency took over aviation security responsibilities from the FAA in 2001?

Transportation Security Administration Signup and view all the answers

What role did Libyan intelligence operatives play in the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing?

They were responsible for planting the bomb. Signup and view all the answers

What major change occurred in air travel as a result of the Pan Am Flight 103 incident?

Legislation mandating checked baggage screening in the U.S. Signup and view all the answers

What impact might a successful bomb detonation near an airport terminal have on its operations?

It could kill hundreds and disrupt airport operations for weeks or months. Signup and view all the answers

Which security measures have not been widely adopted at most U.S. airports despite being common internationally?

Frequent vehicle inspections by armed officers. Signup and view all the answers

What safety feature physically prevented greater damage during the 2007 Glasgow attack?

Security bollards outside the terminal building. Signup and view all the answers

What is one recommended practice to enhance security against potential bombings at airports?

Training patrol personnel to identify explosives in vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

What incident highlighted the threat of active shooters within airport environments?

The November 1, 2013 incident at LAX. Signup and view all the answers

Why are the entry lanes at LAX guarded by police officers conducting searches?

To create a deterrent effect against vehicle-based threats. Signup and view all the answers

What significant operational disruption occurred as a direct result of the LAX active shooter incident?

There was a disruption lasting more than six hours. Signup and view all the answers

How did the potential economic impact of a successful bombing attempt at an airport manifest?

It could cause widespread economic losses extending beyond the airport. Signup and view all the answers

What was a major change implemented by the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001 regarding the screener workforce?

It transitioned the screener workforce from private contractors to federal employees. Signup and view all the answers

Which position was created to oversee security functions at commercial airports after the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001?

Federal Security Director Signup and view all the answers

What challenge did the TSA face concerning its workforce shortly after the Aviation and Transportation Security Act was enacted?

Transitioning a small number of employees to a large workforce of over 80,000. Signup and view all the answers

What was one effect of creating the Federal Security Director position in relation to the FAA's earlier structure?

It caused conflicts with the local FAA agents overseeing security compliance. Signup and view all the answers

Which program saw a resurgence due to the implementation of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001?

Federal Air Marshal Program Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary responsibility of the Federal Security Director at commercial service airports?

Approving the Airport Security Program. Signup and view all the answers

Before the changes made by the Aviation and Transportation Security Act, what was the primary security oversight role of the FAA?

Handling general aviation security and inspections. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Transportation Security Administration regulate in addition to overseeing the screener workforce?

Random anti-terrorism measures and travel document verifications. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main flaws in the aviation security system identified by the 9/11 Commission?

Lack of procedures for identifying potential hijackers Signup and view all the answers

Which challenge was faced by people in the South Tower during the evacuation process?

Lock-release order that prevented stairwell access Signup and view all the answers

What decision made by some companies after the North Tower was hit proved to be fatal?

Returning to their offices after initially evacuating Signup and view all the answers

What successful outcome was credited to the preparedness actions taken after the first WTC bombing?

Thousands of lives were saved Signup and view all the answers

What security measure installed after the Oklahoma City bombing limited casualties at the Pentagon during 9/11?

Safety glazing in the windows of the Pentagon Signup and view all the answers

What was indicated by the challenges faced by dispatchers in advising individuals to evacuate to the roof?

Ineffectiveness of current communication systems Signup and view all the answers

What critical resource was lost with the destruction of the North Tower that impacted rescue efforts in the South Tower?

Command center for security operations Signup and view all the answers

What widespread approach did the aviation industry initially adopt regarding hijackers before 9/11?

Negotiating with hijackers for safe passage Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the TSA secure WebBoard for the ASC?

To facilitate communication and access to security directives Signup and view all the answers

What is the common practice for ensuring the ASC's availability to the TSA?

Designating a schedule of assistants to rotate on-call duties Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following responsibilities is generally not specified in the TSA regulations for ASCs?

Being on-call for the TSA Signup and view all the answers

What does the ASC need to regularly review to ensure compliance with security regulations?

The 49 CFR 1542 Implementation Guide Signup and view all the answers

Which document has been replaced by the Airport Security Program Guide?

The Complete Airport Security Program Guide Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary focus of the ACE-Security program developed by the American Association of Airport Executives?

Comprehensive certification for airport security personnel Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following threats is specifically acknowledged in the context of airport security?

Acts of sabotage against airport infrastructure Signup and view all the answers

What significant change occurred in aviation security due to the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001?

Creation of the Transportation Security Administration Signup and view all the answers

How does the ACE-Security program enhance retention of security material for airport personnel?

Utilizing programmed repetition in module content Signup and view all the answers

What is a function of the layered security system in aviation?

To mitigate risks through overlapping security measures Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of aviation management does the ACE-Security program NOT primarily focus on?

Historical analysis of past aviation incidents Signup and view all the answers

What role does programmed repetition play in the ACE-Security program's design?

It helps integrate multiple security concepts into daily operations Signup and view all the answers

How does the ACE-Security program address the evolving nature of aviation security threats?

Through regular updates and revisions to the modules Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the ASC in relation to employment history checks?

To establish procedures for data collection and processing Signup and view all the answers

What must the ASC do when there is a deviation from the specified conditions in the ASP?

Notify the TSA without delay Signup and view all the answers

Which process is required for the amendment of the ASP?

Periodic reviews by the TSA Signup and view all the answers

What is a key responsibility of the ASC when working with individuals applying for unescorted access?

Assist with correcting their criminal history record with the FBI Signup and view all the answers

What benefit does the 'quick' training provide before national programs are available for ASCs?

Offers immediate familiarity with relevant security measures Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best explains the monitoring responsibility of the ASC regarding criminal history checks?

They are responsible for controlling and processing the results Signup and view all the answers

What key factor can lead to the amendment of an ASP?

Updates to the airport's layout and processes Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does the ASC face regarding individuals with unclear criminal history records?

Interpreting the outcomes of arrests without disposition Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical duty of an Airport Security Coordinator regarding regulation compliance?

Reviewing all security-related functions for effectiveness Signup and view all the answers

What is one primary expectation of the Airport Security Coordinator's availability?

To be available to TSA on a 24-hour basis Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant factor that took airport police by surprise during the Lod Airport incident?

Security was focused on potential threats from domestic terrorists. Signup and view all the answers

How many casualties resulted from the armed attack at the El Al ticket counters in Rome and Vienna?

18 dead and more than 120 injured Signup and view all the answers

How has the role of the Airport Security Coordinator changed since the events of 9/11?

It has expanded to include more regulatory contacts and responsibilities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the nature of surface-to-air missile attacks on civilian aircraft?

Most missile attacks have taken place in countries at war. Signup and view all the answers

What should an effective Airport Security Coordinator strive to develop with other agencies?

Bridges of communication and cooperation Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Airport Security Coordinator serve in relation to potential threats?

They maintain awareness of changing threats and mitigation practices Signup and view all the answers

What type of missile is often discussed in the context of aviation security regarding surface-to-air threats?

Shoulder launched heat-seeking missiles Signup and view all the answers

Which incident involved an attack on an Israeli flagged Arkia regional aircraft?

Mombasa missile attack Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of the Airport Security Coordinator failing to ensure compliance?

Costly civil penalties for non-compliance Signup and view all the answers

What was a notable characteristic of the armed attack at the El Al ticket counter in 2002 at LAX?

The assailant used automatic weapons. Signup and view all the answers

Which specific responsibility is outlined for the ASC under Title 49 CFR Part 1542.3?

Serving as the primary contact for TSA security activities Signup and view all the answers

What skill is considered essential for an effective Airport Security Coordinator?

Knowledge and application of airport security regulations Signup and view all the answers

Why is the topic of surface-to-air missiles typically focused on MANPADS in aviation security discussions?

MANPADS are easily accessible to various groups. Signup and view all the answers

In aviation security history, what has been noted about the rise of active shooters at airports compared to other environments?

The increase is less pronounced compared to other environments. Signup and view all the answers

What led to the replacement of Portal Trace Detectors (PTD) in airport security?

High rates of failure Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the plots revealed involving the Cessna aircraft?

To crash into CIA headquarters Signup and view all the answers

In the 1994 Air France incident, what was the outcome of the hijacking attempt?

French commandos killed the hijackers Signup and view all the answers

What unique aspect did DB Cooper's hijacking reflect compared to others in the 1970s?

He escaped without being captured Signup and view all the answers

Which fictional portrayal involved an airline captain crashing a plane intentionally?

Debt of Honor Signup and view all the answers

In what way did earlier hijackings differ from those that occurred during 9/11?

Earlier hijackers rarely attempted to crash the plane themselves Signup and view all the answers

Which common misconception about hijackers was prevalent before 9/11?

That hijackers would pilot their aircraft into buildings Signup and view all the answers

What was significant about Yousef's bombing of the World Trade Center in 1993?

It was the first attack on American soil Signup and view all the answers

What training levels must ASCs achieve in NIMS for incident management capacity?

ICS 100, 200, 300, and 400 Signup and view all the answers

What does §1542.3 (3) emphasize regarding security-related functions?

They should be reviewed for effectiveness and compliance frequently. Signup and view all the answers

Which area of security does the regulation specifically mention requiring compliance review?

Access control and credentialing systems Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary responsibilities of the ASC concerning non-compliance?

Immediately initiate corrective action for any instance of non-compliance Signup and view all the answers

How are personnel expected to respond in security areas according to the content?

By challenging individuals not displaying proper Access/ID media Signup and view all the answers

In what situation must the ASC ensure that their airport's security measures are working properly?

At all times without exception Signup and view all the answers

What document often requires drafting by the ASC to meet regulatory compliance?

Airport Security Program (ASP) Signup and view all the answers

What specific measures should the ASC review according to the regulations?

Contingency and incident management plans Signup and view all the answers

What is the main responsibility of the Access/ID applicant in relation to disqualifying offenses?

To provide evidence showing no conviction for disqualifying offenses Signup and view all the answers

Which concept emphasizes the ASC's focus on controllable security elements?

Not on my watch Signup and view all the answers

Which responsibility is not explicitly mentioned as part of the ASC’s duties?

Conducting research on criminal histories Signup and view all the answers

What event highlighted the need for heightened awareness and control in airport security?

The bombing of the LAX terminal building Signup and view all the answers

What type of monitoring is an ASC responsible for within the access control system?

Closed-circuit TV systems Signup and view all the answers

How does the ASC's role extend beyond traditional security duties?

By integrating cybersecurity within security operations Signup and view all the answers

What factor may differentiate ASCs in their approach to security responsibilities?

Their personal commitment to preventing terrorist attacks Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key component of the ASC’s liaison responsibilities?

Sharing information with air carrier station managers Signup and view all the answers

What motivated early hijackings primarily during the 1960s?

To escape with ransom money Signup and view all the answers

Which group is specifically associated with a shift in hijacking motives in the late 1960s?

Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) Signup and view all the answers

What incident marked one of the few hijackings aimed at crashing an airplane into a target before September 11, 2001?

Samuel Byck's attempt in 1974 Signup and view all the answers

Which event involved a hijacker claiming to threaten a U.S. nuclear power plant?

The 1972 commercial flight takeover Signup and view all the answers

What was a common feature of hijackings during the late 1960s compared to earlier incidents?

They aimed to achieve political leverage rather than financial gain. Signup and view all the answers

What consequence did the hijacking involving John Devivo have on the flight's outcome?

The plane landed safely despite a firing incident. Signup and view all the answers

Which tragic incident involved a hijacker who used a handgun and a gasoline bomb?

Samuel Byck's Delta Airlines jet takeover Signup and view all the answers

What was one significant motive for hijacking mentioned, especially in the context of the events on September 11, 2001?

Seeking global media attention for a cause Signup and view all the answers

What was one critical oversight that contributed to the hijackers' ability to board the flights?

FAA did not receive critical threat information. Signup and view all the answers

How did the design of airport security measures lead to vulnerabilities during 9/11?

Screening procedures emphasized bomb prevention over hijacking defenses. Signup and view all the answers

What factor made it feasible for the 9/11 hijackers to pilot commercial jets?

Each held at least a Commercial Pilot Certificate. Signup and view all the answers

What was a shortcoming of the CAPPS28 program regarding the hijackers?

It allowed hijackers to travel without inquiries. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 9/11 Commission indicate as an essential aspect of emergency response?

Preparedness is a critical factor. Signup and view all the answers

How did the hijackers exploit airport security to their advantage?

By creating disturbances to access the cockpit. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the methods used by the hijackers to assess security procedures?

They previously taken flights similar to those they hijacked. Signup and view all the answers

Why was the screening process at some airports deemed inadequate?

Wand scanning processes overlooked prohibited items. Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary reason for the failure of Portal Trace Detectors (PTD) in aviation security?

High failure rates of the machines Signup and view all the answers

Which person was associated with a plot involving explosives on a Cessna aircraft aimed at CIA headquarters?

Ramzi Yousef Signup and view all the answers

Which fictional hijacking scenario involved a pilot purposefully crashing a commercial airliner into a government building?

Debt of Honor Signup and view all the answers

What significant aspect about hijackers' actions in past incidents is highlighted in the content?

Previous hijackers typically did not expect to pilot the aircraft into the ground Signup and view all the answers

Which incident showcased a case where the hijackers were successfully stopped before executing their plan?

The Air France jetliner hijacked by the Armed Islamic Group Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome that directly followed the exposure of Ramzi Yousef’s bomb-making plot?

He fled to Pakistan and was later captured Signup and view all the answers

What was the common theme shared among the various aircraft-related terror plots discussed?

Attempts to crash aircraft as weapons of destruction Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the historical context of aviation hijacking as presented?

In the 1970s, most hijackings ended on airport taxiways Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary function of CAPPS when it was first implemented?

To flag passengers likely to pose a security risk Signup and view all the answers

What challenge did the TSA face regarding the checked baggage screening requirement by December 31, 2002?

Manufacturing the necessary equipment was insufficiently rapid. Signup and view all the answers

What was the implication of CAPPS regarding passenger screening?

It mandated an enhanced screening only for flagged passengers. Signup and view all the answers

What was one result of the legislative requirement for Federal Security Directors (FSDs) at each airport?

Some airports share a single FSD due to practicality issues. Signup and view all the answers

How did the TSA interpret the 'screened' definition to meet their deadline?

By implementing Positive Passenger Bag Match as a substitute. Signup and view all the answers

What initiative was required to ensure security awareness among airport personnel?

Establishment of pilot programs for biometric technology Signup and view all the answers

What was a critical responsibility of aircraft operators concerning security measures?

To ensure that all items reaching the aircraft are screened adequately Signup and view all the answers

What requirement regarding screening processes was mandated for cargo carried aboard commercial airliners?

Cargo screening must be implemented whenever practical. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Airport Security Coordinator (ASC) Responsibilities

ASCs require access to TSA's secure WebBoard for directives, information, criminal history checks, threat assessments, and secure communications.
ASCs have access to the Airport Security Program Guide, 49 CFR 1542 Implementation Guide, and ASP template.
ASCs must be available 24/7, though assistants ("Alternate ASCs") are often used.
ASC assistants handle tasks like on-call duty, badging office management, and security officer workforce management.
ASCs should stay informed about industry developments by attending seminars, subscribing to publications (AAAE's SmartBrief, etc.), and using digital feeds.
ASCs need excellent communication skills to implement procedures and enforce policies sometimes unpopular with tenants.
At Category X and I airports, ASCs primarily focus on aviation security.
ASCs handle sensitive security information and control criminal history record checks for badging applicants.
Airport directors sometimes choose law enforcement officers as ASCs (weighing the cost/benefit of taking them from patrol).
ASCs can be civilians, or combined with law enforcement officers (associate ASC).
TSA does not mandate an ASC's specific job title or if they are a law enforcement officer.
ASCs can include additional duties in airport safety or the airport director at smaller airports.

Aviation Security Threats

Major threats to aviation have included aircraft bombings and hijackings.
The Pan Am Flight 103 bombing (1988) over Lockerbie, Scotland, highlighted issues with checked baggage screening, use of military-grade explosives, and a lack of U.S. requirements for checked bag screening after the incident.
The bombing led to the creation of the Associate Administrator for Aviation Security within the FAA and a victims' advocacy group.
Bombings remain a primary concern in aviation security.

Screening Responsibilities

Screening passengers, carry-on bags, and checked bags is primarily the responsibility of the aircraft operator and shared with TSA inside US territories.
Aircraft operators must prevent or deter weapons, explosives, or incendiaries on their flights and inspect individuals and items in sterile areas.
Outside the U.S., aircraft operators must either handle screening themselves or ensure a designated entity performs it.
Screening aims to prevent hijackings or bombings
A lack of coordinated FAA and military response procedures for multiple hijackings was identified as a weakness.

Aviation and Transportation Security Act (ATSA)

ATSA (2001) created the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), transitioning screener workforce to federal employees.
ATSA also created Federal Security Directors (FSDs) for all commercial service airports.
Pre-9/11, FAA's CASFO handled airport security inspections.
FSDs oversee baggage and passenger screening, airport compliance, and federal security programs (behavior detection, travel document checks).
ATSA brought Federal Air Marshals (FAMs) back to the airways, who were reduced to mostly high-risk international flights prior to 9/11.
ATSA standardized passenger pre-screening (CAPPS) after the TWA 800 crash.
ATSA required 100% checked baggage screening but was difficult to implement immediately.
Although FSDs are designated for each airport, they may be assigned to more than one, and are not always on-site

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Description

Explore the essential responsibilities of Airport Security Coordinators (ASCs) including their access to secure information, communication skills, and around-the-clock availability. Understand the role of ASCs in implementing aviation security measures and managing sensitive information. This quiz will help you grasp the key functions and skills needed for effective airport security management.