TSA has issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on November 18, 2009 that addresses security at aircraft repair stations.

PAMA believes that these new rules will have a significant impact on AMTs throughout the country, especially those working at repair stations that are not situated at airports. The new proposed rules are summarized below, but please see the full NPRM.

PAMA will be submitting comments on the NPRM prior during the comment period, which ends on January 19, 2010.

Controlled Access to Facilities

All Certified Repair Stations (CRSÆs) must control access to facility, aircraft and components, and designate who is permitted to access these area. Repair station employees will be required to escort authorized visitors and challenge unauthorized individuals.

Background Checks for Employees

CRSÆs must complete background checks on all employees to verify their attendees, and provide security awareness training to all employees.

Establish Security Coordinators

CRSÆs must designate a Security Coordinator to serve as the point of contact for security-related matters, and establish contingency plans that describe how the station will react to breaches.

TSA May Revoke Certificates for Non-Compliance

TSA, through the FAA, will have the authority to suspend a stationÆs certificate if TSA feels security measures are not adequate. TSA, through the FAA, can have the certificate revoked if TSA determines the Repair Station is a Security Risk.

Repair stations will also be required to comply with any new amendments or directives issued by TSA after the regulations are approved.