AIRPORTS - 1/18/05
AOPA: Cargo Proposal Could Obstruct GA Airport Access
TSA's proposed cargo security rule could make it harder for general aviation (GA) pilots to get to their aircraft at certain airports, says the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA).
TSA in November proposed the Air Cargo Security Requirements, which call for enhanced airport security perimeters and background checks of workers comparable to those used at passenger airports. Some cargo industry stakeholders claim the background checks would be too burdensome (Airports, Jan. 4).
The GA industry group, however, says the proposal could reclassify GA access areas. "AOPA is concerned that the rules, as drafted, could be interpreted to mean that the general aviation ramps at air carrier airports would have to be included in the airport 'security identification display area' (SIDA)," said Andy Cebula, AOPA senior vice president of government and technical affairs. "That means pilots would be subject to a criminal history check and need an airport-issued security ID to get to their aircraft."
GA aircraft areas, generally, are already physically separated from scheduled cargo operation and are outside the SIDA. "This has proven to be an effective and efficient manner to control access at airports and manage operations," AOPA said in its formal comments.
AOPA said TSA should allow pilot access but prohibit those unauthorized from accessing aircraft and cargo-handling areas at airports where the GA ramp is used for small cargo operations.
New Jersey Aviation Association
1 Airport Road, Morristown, NJ 07960-4651
Phone: 973 734 9994 - Fax: 973 734 9995
