New TSA Rules In The Works Will Affect GA

The Transportation Security Administration is taking a close look at general aviation and new rules are expected to be issued soon, but for now at least, the agency's attention is focused on aircraft that weigh 12,500 pounds and more. A story in USA Today on Monday said the TSA is planning "a massive expansion" of security measures. The business aviation community, of course, is keeping a close eye on the regulators. "The new security proposals must be workable and should strike the right balance between the need for security and for mobility," Dan Hubbard, spokesman for the National Business Aviation Association, told USA Today. AOPA said it supports reasonable security measures but will oppose any regulations that unduly restrict GA with no significant security benefit. "While the details of the rule proposal are uncertain, one of our major concerns is that this is the first time a new segment of the aviation population will be regulated," said Andy Cebula, AOPA executive vice president of government affairs. "The real effects of this proposal will become clearer after it's released."

Cebula added that AOPA has been working with TSA and the White House to ensure that members' concerns are addressed as the expected new proposal evolves.