The FBI has instructed law enforcement officials to be mindful that terrorists may be interested in using general aviation and charter aircraft in attacks. Noting that 41 aircraft have been reported stolen - and not recovered - in the Western United States, particularly in California, Texas and Arizona, the FBI has asked law enforcement to be on alert.
The FAA and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have also issued a warning to the General Aviation (GA) community that terrorists who are no longer able to hijack commercial airliners because of increased security at commercial airports may turn to civil and general aviation airports and aircraft to conduct operations.
The TSA indicated that they have no credible information concerning specific targets, timing, or methods of attack. However, they advise the GA community to observe good physical security for aircraft and facilities and be continuously on the lookout for suspicious persons, activities, and operations around airports. They advise, “If you observe persons, aircraft, and operations that do not fit the customary pattern at your airport, you should immediately advise law enforcement authorities.”
They suggest increased vigilance be directed toward the following:
- Aircraft with unusual or unauthorized modifications.
- Persons loitering in the vicinity of aircraft or air operations areas.
- Persons who appear to be under stress or the control of other persons.
- Persons whose identification appears altered or inconsistent.
Source: FAA; FBI; Police1