FBI and Aviation Security

FBI's Role in Aviation Security

• Responsible for protecting the U.S. against terrorist threats, particularly in aviation.
• Each FBI office has a Special Agent (SA) handling aviation security, disseminating threat information to operators, and liaising with law enforcement.
• Involved in incidents of aircraft piracy and major criminal acts at U.S. airports or on registered aircraft.
• The Critical Incident Response Group (CIRG) can establish an incident command post within two hours, featuring specialists like crisis negotiators and behavioral analysts.

Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF)

• Comprises local agents from diverse law enforcement and intelligence agencies aimed at countering terrorism.
• Over 4,400 JTTFs are active in the U.S., ensuring tactical responses to terrorism.
• The National JTTF was established in 2002, acting as a central hub for terrorist intelligence.

Fusion Centers

• Serve as information exchange mechanisms to enhance crime and terrorism responses by aggregating data from various sources.
• Created in response to coordination issues evident after 9/11.
• Aim to provide local law enforcement with necessary tools for gathering and sharing intelligence.

Aviation Crime Investigations

• FBI investigates nine types of aviation-related crimes, including air piracy, interference with flight crew, and carrying weapons on aircraft.
• FBI responds to major airline incidents by dispatching agents for investigation.

Jurisdiction and Definitions

• FBI jurisdiction includes any civil aircraft registered in the U.S. and specific foreign aircraft in U.S. airspace.
• “Air Piracy” defined as the seizure or control of an aircraft through force or intimidation.
• Local authorities possess options for recourse against violent passengers, including civil actions.

Federal Law Enforcement Agencies at Airports

• Federal Protective Service (FPS) provides armed security at airports and is crucial for emergency responses.
• Customs and Border Protection (CBP) prevents the entry of terrorists and contraband, operating at Ports of Entry to manage customs and immigration enforcement.
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) handles illegal immigration and human trafficking incidents.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

• Enforces U.S. controlled substances laws and conducts airport investigations of drug smuggling activities.
• In recent years, increasing smuggling via drones and ultra-light vehicles has been noted.

Collaboration with Other Federal Agencies

• Airport Security Coordinators (ASCs) coordinate responses with various federal agencies including the Secret Service for VIPs and ATF during threats.
• Cooperation among agencies is essential to ensure comprehensive security management.

Terrorist Screening Center (TSC)

• Established under Homeland Security Presidential Directive 6, functions as the main authority for watchlisting suspected terrorists.
• Screens foreign citizens seeking U.S. entry and operates a 24/7 call center for threat assessments.
• Utilizes a no-fly list and other screening mechanisms to prevent known threats from accessing aviation services.

Aviation Information Sharing and Analysis Center (A-ISAC)

• Focuses on protecting aviation operations through timely information sharing and analysis of potential threats.

Homeland Security Information Network (HSIN)

• Trusted network for federal, state, and local partners to securely share information related to homeland security missions.
• Integrates various databases for operational management and intelligence sharing in aviation security contexts.