Private Charter Standard Security Program: What You Need to Know

Originally published February 20, 2014 - Updated November 9, 2021

Why is information on air traffic compliance and regulations so difficult to understand? If you run a private charter, you may know you need to adhere to the Private Charter Standard Security Program, though you may not know what that entails. Here, we break it down for you in easy to understand language so you can ensure that you’re compliant and take measures to get your staff properly trained and vetted.

The Private Charter Standard Security Program (PCSSP) is similar to the Twelve-Five Standard Security Program (TFSSP), with additional requirements if your aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of more than 45,500 kg (or 100,309.3 pounds). If your private charter is configured with 61 or more passenger seats, you also need to adhere to the additional requirements.

So what's the difference between the TFSSP & the PCSSP?

If you’re a private charter, you have to adhere to the same security measures as TFSSP, but you are also required to screen your passengers and accessible baggage before they can board or be placed on your aircraft.

Additionally, you are required to have a security program in place that shows how you are implementing these security measures. Your program must include the following:

• Metal detection devices
• X-ray systems
• Security coordinators
• Training for security coordinators and crew members, as well as those with security-related responsibilities

Who doesn't it affect?

If your private charter has a MTOW of 12,500 or more, but less than 45,500 kg, you don’t need to worry about the PCSSP. You are still, however, required to adhere to the TSA’s Twelve-Five Standard Security Program.

Complying with the PCSSP

Once you’ve created your security program and met all the criteria, consider your training strategy. Before you start looking for TSA screeners, know this: TSA has acknowledged that because most of the private charter operations don’t happen at airline terminals that already have an established TSA presence, it’s not necessary that your screeners be TSA. It would be a logistical nightmare to try to run all private charter passengers through existing TSA security checklines, so TSA has lightened up in this regard.

The Private Charter Rule permits “non-TSA” screeners that have completed TSA-approved private charter screener training to screen those passengers and baggage coming through your private charter.  This makes the training process a little simpler than if you were required to only use TSA screeners.

If you don’t have training procedures in place, not to worry. Working with a compliance company like NATA Compliance Services can ensure your private charter employees are not only appropriately trained but also fingerprinted and cleared with a TSA-approved background check.

How to request your PCSSP

To request more information on the PCSSP, click here.