The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced a "Notice of Proposed Rulemaking" on October 9, 2008 that represents the largest and most significant regulatory action to face General Aviation (GA) since 9/11. The TSA is calling it the Large Aircraft Security Program (LASP).

There are two basic elements within the 260 page Notice of Proposed Rulemaking; one impacts aircraft operators and the other, GA airports. "Reliever airports" will be required under the TSA proposal to implement a security program. The TSA is proposing to require, among other things, that they designate an Airport Security Coordinator, have a training program for law enforcement personnel, have a system for maintaining records, create procedures for posting of public advisories and develop incident management procedures.

These requirements are widely seen as burdensome mandates that could at the very least overwhelm the limited resources of many GA airports in New York State. NYAMA, the "Voice of Aviation in New York," representative the GA industry in oral testimony given by President Bill McShane on January 8. A copy of the testimony is available here.

Should you wish to find out more about the TSA proposal or other issues impacting GA aviation in New York, contact NYAMA Headquarters at 518-432-9973 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .