Large Aircraft Security Program (LASP)

Background

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) proposed an overhaul of the rules and restrictions relating to the operation of private aircraft in October 2008. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) for this new comprehensive program was called the Large Aircraft Security Program. This initiative would consolidate three current TSA security programs into one. Among many other new requirements, it also seeks to amend the Twelve Five Standard Security Program and Private Charter Standard Security Program and apply new security requirements to all aircraft weighing more than 12,500 pounds. In addition, TSA proposes that airports serving large aircraft adopt mandatory security requirements. The NPRM was published in the Federal Register at the end of October 2008, and the comment period closed on March 2, 2009.

Status and AGA Position (as of 4/20/11)

More than 7,000 public comments were submitted regarding the LASP NPRM, and an overwhelming majority of those were in opposition to the new rules – including those from the AGA expressing its member companies’ concern with the regulations and their potential restrictive impact on private air travel. The AGA is working with the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and its allies in Congress to modify the proposed rules. The National Air Transportation Association expects a supplemental NPRM to be released in early 2011.