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06/21/2004: Homeland Security

In a groundbreaking effort to open the doors of communication between the ultralight aviation community and the Department Of Homeland Security, USUA staff participated in a teleconference with several members of the Transportation Security Administration.

While reassuring USUA that there is no credible information suggesting that terrorists in the U.S. will be using ultralights, there is significant evidence of their use in other countries. Because of this possibility, "TSA wants to make sure that ultralight pilots are aware of the different avenues available to them to report any suspicious activity," reported USUA EVP Dale Hooper. He went on to say, "This meeting shows the respect The Transportation Security Administration has for the low and slow segment of aviation. It is important that ultralight pilots become more aware of the possibility that a threat might exist around their airports, flight parks and local flying areas. Any suspicious behavior should be reported to TSA, no matter how insignificant it may seem. As they say, 'When in doubt, report.' According to Homeland Security, this summer and fall could contain attempts to disrupt our way of life. I have promised TSA that they can count on the Ultralight Community, and that our people will be proud to help in any way possible."

To report any suspicious activity, call 1-866-GA-SECURE (1-866-427-3287).

What type of activity should be considered suspicious? Many questions come to mind when considering filing a report of this nature. For more information, feel free to download the brochure titled Airport Watch from the USUA website (found on the Online Forms Page). This informative document was put together by AOPA, and contains valuable information, and insights, that will answer many of your questions.

Also available for download, is the TSA produced, "Security Guidelines for General Aviation Airports" (also found on the Online Forms Page of the USUA website). USUA members and clubs are encouraged to read this informative document.

Along with reporting suspicious activities, TSA cautions ultralight pilots about TFRs. Since this is an election year, you can expect TFRs to pop up unexpectedly and be lifted almost as quickly. These temporary flight restrictions are put into place to protect Americans. Even the well intentioned, but uninformed pilot, can cross into these areas and the safeguards that are in place by these restrictions can be jeopardized. In which case, you may be escorted to the ground by a much more intimidating aircraft than you are flying. All pilots are required to check for NOTAMS before flight, and no excuses will be tolerated. Pilots may check current TFRs directly from the FAA's TFR Webpage.

USUA suggests that ALL members remain vigilant in their observance of any activity that is suspicious, and to report all cases to Homeland Security.