DCA Access Standard Security Program (DASSP) Information

On Oct. 18, 2005, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) officially reopened to general aviation traffic. Flights are permitted to/from DCA for Part 91 and Part 135 operators via the DCA Access Standard Security Program (DASSP). DASSP was developed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to ensure all DCA operators have been properly vetted and adhere to a higher level of security standards. 

DASSP application checklist for operators 

• DASSP Operator Checklist 

To apply for the DASSP program as an aircraft operator and/or Fixed Base Operator (FBO), please contact the DASSP Program Office by email at DASSP@tsa.dhs.gov.

DASSP regulatory compliance 

Once your company has been confirmed for a DASSP program through TSA, you will need to complete the following steps:

1.     Register your company with us, if it has not been done so already.

2.    Enroll individuals that must comply with the DASSP fingerprint-based, Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) requirements.

3.    Request Airman File Check by completing the authorization form and submitting it to our team. The Airman File Check is separate from the CHRC and can be ordered at any time. 

4.    The name-based, Security Threat Assessment shall be completed as part of the DASSP application process.

TSA fingerprint guidance for DASSP 

The CHRC can be ordered once TSA has confirmed your enrollment into DASSP with us. The below link is a TSA guide on how to complete the fingerprinting process for the CHRC with NATA CS. 

• TSA General Aviation Security Programs Fingerprinting Guidance 
  
  

DASSP rules 

• TSA inspection of crew and passengers. 
• TSA inspection of property (accessible and checked) and aircraft. 
• The start and end dates of flight must be indicated on the TSA flight authorization. 
• Identification checks of passengers by TSA. 
• Submission of passenger and crew manifests 24 hours in advance of flight. 
• Enhanced background checks for all passengers and fingerprint based criminal history records check (CHRC) for flight crew. 
• Armed Security Officer (ASO) on board each flight.
• All operations are subject to cancellation at any time. 
• All unscheduled operations to/from DCA require an FAA Slot Reservation. 

Read the TSA Interim Final Rule that describes the DASSP rules.

DASSP gateway locations 

• DASSP Gateway Locations (Updated September 20, 2024) 
  
  

Contacts 

• TSA provides contact information specific to the various DASSP requirements: 
• Questions specific to the Armed Security Officer (ASO) should be directed to the ASO program office by calling +1.571.227.5355. 
• Questions specific to the program requirements for aircraft operators or Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) should be directed to the DASSP program office by calling +1.571.227.1108. 
• Questions specific to TSA Flight Authorizations, by currently approved DASSP aircraft operators, should be directed to the Airspace Waivers Branch by calling +1.571.227.2071.