Security Considerations on the Flightdeck of Transport Category Airplanes, 21562-21570 [05-8259]
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Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 79 / Tuesday, April 26, 2005 / Proposed Rules
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Parts 23, 25, 121, and 129
[Docket Nos. 2002–11032; 2002–12504, and
2003–15653]
RIN 2120–AI54 (Formerly 2120–AH56),
–AH70, and –AH96
Security Considerations on the
Flightdeck of Transport Category
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Disposition of comments on
final rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: Since the September 11, 2001
terrorist attacks, the agency has
published six amendments and has held
one public meeting on standards for
reinforcing flightdeck doors. The FAA
sought public comments for each
amendment, but all six were effective
immediately on publication. The agency
disposed of some comments that related
specifically to the reinforced door
requirements in later amendments. This
action disposes of the remaining
comments.
You may review the public
dockets (Docket Nos. 2002–11032,
2002–12504, and 2003–15653) in the
Dockets Office between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The Dockets Office is
on the plaza level of the Nassif Building
at the Department of Transportation,
Room Plaza 401, 400 Seventh Street,
SW., Washington, DC 20590–0001. Also
you may review the public docket on
the Internet at https://dms.dot.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For
part 25 issues, contact Jeff Gardlin,
Airframe and Cabin Safety Branch
(ANM–115), Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service, Federal Aviation
Administration, 1601 Lind Avenue,
SW., Renton, Washington 98055–4056;
telephone (425) 227–2136, facsimile
(425) 227–1149, e-mail:
jeff.gardlin@faa.gov. For part 121,
contact Joe Keenan, Air Carrier
Operations Branch (AFS–220), Flight
Standards Services, Federal Aviation
Administration, 800 Independence
Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591;
telephone (202) 267–9579; facsimile
(202) 267–5229; e-mail:
joe.keenan@faa.gov. For part 129,
contact Marlene Livack, International
Programs & Policy Office (AFS–50) 800
Independence Avenue, SW.,
Washington, DC 20591, telephone (202)
ADDRESSES:
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385–4678;, facsimile (202) 385–4561, email: marlene.livack@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
On September 11, 2001, the United
States experienced terrorist attacks
when aircraft were commandeered and
used as weapons. These actions
demonstrated a need to improve the
design, operational, and procedural
security of the flightdeck. On November
19, 2001, Congress enacted Public Law
107–71, the Aviation and
Transportation Security Act (the Act),
which specifies that improved
flightdeck security must be applied to
aircraft operating in passenger or
intrastate air transportation. Section 104
of the Act directed the FAA to issue a
final rule, without seeking public
comment prior to adoption addressing
the security requirement for aircraft that
are currently required to have flightdeck
doors.
As a result, the FAA issued a series
of Special Federal Aviation Regulations
(SFAR 92) and four final rules without
notice, and held a public meeting.
• Special Federal Aviation
Regulations (SFAR–92) (66 FR 51546,
October 9, 2001; 66 FR 52835, October
17, 2001; 66 FR 58650, November 21,
2001; and 67 FR 12820, March 19, 2002;
Docket No. FAA–2002–10770) first
allowed, and then required, the
installation of internal locking devices
on the flightdeck doors.
• On January 15, 2002, we amended
Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations
(14 CFR) parts 25 and 121 to set new
standards for flightdeck doors
(Amendment Nos. 25–106 and 121–288;
67 FR 2118; Docket No. FAA–2002–
11032). Section 25.795 was amended to
set standards for reinforcing flightdeck
doors. The new standards require them
to resist forcible intrusion and ballistic
penetration. Section 121.313(f) was
amended to mandate installation of the
reinforced doors on certain airplanes
not later than April 9, 2003. The
affected airplanes included transport
category all-cargo airplanes operated
under part 121 which had flightdeck
doors installed on or after January 15,
2002.
• On June 21, 2002, the FAA
amended 14 CFR part 129 to apply
similar standards to foreign operators
operating into the United States
(Amendment No. 129–33; 67 FR 42450;
Docket No. FAA–2002–12504). Section
129.28 requires installation of the
reinforced door not later than April 9,
2003. The affected airplanes include
transport category all-cargo airplanes
operated under part 129 which had
flightdeck doors installed on or after
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June 21, 2002. A public meeting to
address the amendment was held on
July 30.
• On December 23, 2002, we
amended part 129 as a result of input
received from a public hearing held on
July 30, 2002, and comments received as
a result of the rulemaking (Amendment
No. 129–36; 67FR79822; Docket No.
FAA–2002–12504). The amendment
clarifies the applicability of the part 129
regulations for foreign operators.
• On July 18, 2003, the FAA issued
Amendment Nos. 121–299 and 129–38.
These amendments provided an
alternative means of compliance to
operators of all-cargo airplanes that are
required to have a reinforced security
flightdeck door. The rule allows
operators of large cargo airplanes to
either install reinforced flightdeck doors
or adopt enhanced security procedures
approved by the Transportation Security
Administration. We also changed the
cargo portion of the rule to replace the
April 9, 2003, compliance date with
October 1, 2003, to correspond to
section 355 of the Consolidated
Appropriations Resolution, Public Law
108–7.
In Amendment Nos. 121–299 and
129–38, the FAA also disposed of some
comments that had been received for the
earlier amendments that related
specifically to the reinforced door
requirements. At that time, we indicated
that we would respond later, in a
separate document, to all other
comments. This action represents that
document.
Discussion of Comments
Amendment Nos. 25–106/121–288
(Parts 25 and 121)
Thirty-two commenters, representing
airlines, aerospace manufacturers, a
labor organization, and individuals,
responded to the request for comments.
Two of these commenters submitted
comments directly to the FAA without
entering them in the public docket
because of their security-sensitive
nature; their comments will not be
discussed for that reason. Some
comments that were submitted before
the regulation and associated advisory
were published (https://www.faa.gov/
regulations/) were actually addressed in
those documents. These comments
address cargo operations, applying the
rule more broadly, the performance
standards test methods, inflight access
to the flightdeck, and the availability of
advisory material. Comments also
address the FAA’s assessment of the
cost of the rule.
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Cargo Operation
Ten commenters address the need to
extend the requirements for flightdeck
door improvements to all-cargo
operations.
• Comment: Commenters were
divided on whether (1) the current
requirements should be extended to any
all-cargo airplane operating in part 121
service, or (2) the current requirements
should be rescinded for all-cargo
airplanes that have flightdeck doors
installed and carry persons aft of the
flightdeck.
Response: The FAA believes the
proponents of each argument make
many good points on an issue that is not
simple. We believe that (1) all-cargo
operations need to be treated
consistently, and (2) improvements in
security are necessary for all-cargo
operations that permit the carriage of
persons, whether on the flightdeck or aft
of it. For reasons of security, the details
surrounding all the issues will not be
discussed here. However, based on all
available information, the FAA adopted
Amendment Nos.121–299 and 129–38,
which permit operators to adopt
security programs, in lieu of installation
of a reinforced flightdeck door in certain
situations. Regardless of whether the
operator has a flightdeck door installed
on its airplanes, the operator is still
subject to security requirements of the
TSA and FAA. These actions were taken
in coordination with the Transportation
Security Administration (TSA) and are
discussed further elsewhere in this
document.
Rule Applicability
Three commenters address extending
the existing standards to other types of
airplanes operating in part 121 service.
• Comments: Two commenters state
that improved flightdeck doors were
impractical for other than transport
category airplanes, and would not have
a practical impact on security in any
case. They point out that many of these
airplanes do not have separate
flightdecks and, on those that do, the
structure necessary to support a
reinforced flightdeck door is not
present. They note that emergency
egress from these airplanes is frequently
predicated on there being no obstacle
between the flightdeck and emergency
exits, and the installation of flightdeck
door would compromise egress.
Similarly, these commenters note that
other airworthiness requirements (such
as accommodating rapid
decompression) would be very difficult
to address were a flightdeck door
installed where none previously existed.
• One commenter encourages
adoption of similar standards for
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commuter category airplanes (part 23).
He argues for an equivalent approach to
security for airplanes operating in
commercial passenger service.
Response: After extensive discussion
with the TSA to determine the threat/
risk present and the most appropriate
method of mitigation, we do not plan to
extend the requirements for reinforced
flightdeck doors beyond their current
applicability. If additional action is
needed to extend these requirements to
commuter category airplanes, we will
do so in separate rulemaking, and we
will address any egress problems.
• Comment: One commenter
proposes 75,000 pounds as the lower
weight limit on airplanes required to
comply with this requirement.
Response: The FAA disagrees. The
proposed weight limit would exclude a
large number of significant size regional
jets and airplanes operating in part 121
service. As discussed in the preamble,
the FAA has already established the
need for a door between the flightdeck
and the passenger cabin and includes
airplanes less than 75,000 pounds.
Certain airplanes should have flightdeck
doors, and this requirement establishes
performance criteria for those doors. To
arbitrarily establish a weight limit for
incorporation of the performance
requirements would diminish the effect
of the rule and reduce the overall level
of safety and security.
Performance Standards
Six commenters address the severity
of the standards for intrusion and
ballistic penetration resistance. These
commenters state that one or both
standards were not severe enough.
• Comment: Commenters addressing
the intrusion requirements point out
that there are ways to achieve higher
than a 300 Joule (300J) impact, and that
the existing standard might not be
adequate. One commenter at the FAA
public meeting on flightdeck security
for foreign operators questioned the
adequacy of tension load requirements
and stated that the values required
could easily be exceeded.
Response: We considered several
factors in establishing the requirement
at 300 Joules. Based on the comments,
we revisited the standard and have
concluded that it is adequate. First, the
rule requires that the impact be applied
on very localized areas of the door. In
virtually all instances where higher than
300J could be exerted, the impact would
be spread over a greater area, effectively
reducing the severity of the impact
locally. Second, as noted in the rule, the
intent of the requirement is not to make
the door impenetrable, but to
significantly add to its ability to resist
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an intruder, until other measures can be
taken. Given the measures necessary to
actually generate more than 300J, the
FAA is confident that the current
standard provides the level of protection
necessary to satisfy the intent of the
requirement and significantly upgrade
security and safety.
Regarding the tension load
requirement, it is possible to exert a
higher force on the doorknob or handle
in some cases; however, the FAA has
concluded that this is not a practical
concern. The installation configuration
of flightdeck doors on airplanes and the
basic frangibility of the doorknob does
not compromise the intrusion resistance
of the door.
• Comment: One commenter suggests
that the standard be modified to address
a time element i.e., duration of an
attack.
Response: We expect other measures
would be invoked before an intruder
could sustain a prolonged attack on the
door. In addition, such a requirement is
not suitable as a certification standard
unless a quantifiable way of measuring
performance can be standardized. The
FAA is unaware of any such standard
and, given the severity of the impact
and tension load requirements, is
satisfied that the existing intrusion
standard is adequate.
• Comment: One commenter suggests
modifying the ballistic penetration
standard to require testing in conditions
of extreme humidity. The commenter
notes that many ballistic materials can
lose their performance characteristics
when wet, and is concerned that issue
is not being addressed.
Response: Prolonged exposure to very
high humidity can affect ballistic
performance. This is not, however, a
practical concern for commercial
airplanes. To the degree that humidity
does vary in the airplane, it is typically
very low, and any exposure to higher
humidity would be for far shorter times
than would be necessary to noticeably
affect the performance of the material.
The FAA does not plan to change the
standard.
• Comment: One commenter objects
to the language in Advisory Circular
25.795–2, which notes that protrusion of
the bullet (i.e., partial penetration) is
acceptable, as long as no penetration
occurs. The commenter suggests that
bullets should not be allowed to
protrude through the door.
Response: We do not agree. As long as
no penetration of the bullet or fragments
occurs, the door will have met its
objective. From a certification
standpoint, this is a readily achievable
standard that does not require
interpretation. On the other hand, a
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‘‘partial protrusion’’ could be
interpreted in many ways and could
lead to non-standardized application of
the requirement, for no real gain in
safety.
• Comment: Two commenters believe
that the ballistic and intrusion
requirements should be considered in
combination with each other, or with
other failures. These commenters
believe that the standard should require,
for example, that the door retain its
intrusion and ballistic resistance after
the airplane experiences a rapid
decompression. The commenters
suggest that the scenario whereby the
airplane experiences a rapid
decompression and is subsequently
targeted for terrorist action is
sufficiently likely to require regulatory
action.
Response: We do not agree. A rapid
decompression sufficient to compromise
the integrity of the flightdeck door is a
very severe and infrequent event. The
likelihood of this event, coupled with
an intruder on board, is extremely
small. If the airplane experiences such
rapid decompression, it is unlikely that
an intruder would be able to carry out
an action against the airplane because of
the resultant damage that would affect
the flying conditions.
Finally, the practicality of designing a
door that would provide adequate
venting for rapid decompression while
still being intrusion and ballistically
resistant is questionable at best.
Satisfying decompression requirements
without consideration of maintaining
security proved to be a very difficult
certification issue; the FAA doubts that
such designs could be implemented in
a timely manner, if at all. With regard
to whether the intrusion and ballistic
requirements should be considered in
combination with each other, the FAA
notes that the current requirements are
focused on preventing intrusion into the
flightdeck. As such, the ballistic
requirements include consideration of
any failure that would permit the door
to be opened, in addition to the
penetration resistance of the door itself.
The FAA considers that this provision
adequately addresses the existing fleet
and will provide a high level of security.
For future airplanes, the FAA will
consider the need to require penetration
resistance following tests for intrusion.
Such a requirement would be more
practical on new airplanes than for a
retrofit application and, while the
improvement in security is likely to be
small, such designs may be more readily
developed for a new design with
minimal cost.
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Emergency Access to the Flightdeck
One commenter addresses the
requirement for inflight access by flight
attendants in the event the crew
becomes incapacitated.
Response: In accordance with
§ 121.587(b), certificate holders are
already required to have FAA-approved
procedures for opening, closing, and
locking the flightcrew compartment
door. These procedures may include the
use of an FAA certificated electronic
access system. While the use of highly
sophisticated systems for flightcrew
compartment access is not presently
required, many certificate holders have
elected to use these systems voluntarily.
The FAA has concluded that the current
requirements are sufficiently safe as
written, and no change is necessary.
Advisory Material
Four commenters addressed the
advisory material.
• Comment: One commenter that
filed comments before the FAA issued
the regulation and advisory materials
states that language in draft advisory
material reflects a product bias. He
recommends that such language be
changed. A trade association commenter
supports this position.
• Response: The FAA modified the
final version of the advisory material to
reflect more generic language, although
there was never any intended
endorsement of one product type over
another. No further comments on this
topic were received during the comment
period.
• Comment: Two commenters request
additional advisory material. One
commenter requests an advisory circular
(AC) to address the access systems
discussed above. The other commenter
requests advisory material on minimum
requirements for dispatch with regard to
the performance of the flightdeck door.
Response: Before issuing the rule, the
FAA maintained a guidance
memorandum and a list of ‘‘frequently
asked questions.’’ (See Web site at:
https://www.airweb.faa.gov/
Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/
rgPolicy.nsf/0/
324ED6824765F7E
D86256E600053490F?OpenDocument.)
This memorandum effectively serves as
advisory material for the access system.
The FAA will consider whether a
dedicated AC is needed for the access
system, however, there is no current
plan for a separate AC.
The FAA has also developed a policy
for use by the Flight Operations
Evaluation Boards that establishes
Master Minimum lists that the operators
use to determine acceptable dispatch
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configurations. This document is
available at https://www.opspecs.com to
all interested parties and satisfies the
request for guidance.
Other Designs
• Comment: Two commenters state
that a double door arrangement, creating
a chamber between the two doors
outside the flightdeck should be
required. One commenter proposes
designs for such an arrangement, while
one commenter refers to similar
configurations used by a foreign airline.
Response: We do not agree. Using two
flightdeck doors will typically magnify
all other compliance issues, as
discussed in the preamble. In particular,
venting for rapid decompression,
emergency egress, and smoke
evacuation would be much more
difficult to address with two doors
instead of one. The principal advantage
of a double door arrangement is that it
separates the flightdeck from the cabin
and both doors would not have to be
open at the same time.
With regard to the foreign operator
that has this arrangement, the FAA
notes that this is a voluntary
configuration that is used on only one
aircraft type. In addition, that operator
has experienced problems in satisfying
certification requirements. While the
FAA acknowledges that such designs
are possible, to retrofit them into
existing airplanes would be very
complicated and would require a longer
compliance time than is considered
prudent. For new airplanes, such
designs might be more feasible, and the
FAA will consider whether the benefits
of a double door arrangement would
outweigh the costs in any future
rulemaking. At this time, however, no
action is planned.
Flightdeck Bulkhead
• Comment: Two commenters
propose that the bulkhead that separates
the flightdeck from the passenger cabin
be subject to the same standards as the
flightdeck door.
Response: The FAA agrees and is in
the process of proposing requirements
to adopt the same standards into part 25
that are currently required for the
flightdeck door. This requirement
would apply to new type design and
would not require retrofit. For the
existing fleet, the flightdeck door
represents the most significant security
weakness. The bulkheads are typically
much more substantial and contain
equipment and features on the
flightdeck that provide inherent
protection. While it would undoubtedly
be an improvement to apply the same
standards to the bulkheads of airplanes
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in the existing fleet, the FAA concludes
that this modification would be very
difficult and expensive for an
incremental improvement in security.
To the extent that an operator can
accomplish this modification readily on
a particular airplane type, the FAA
would encourage it to do so.
Funding
• Comment: Two commenters state
that, since certain cargo operators are
being required to modify airplanes, they
should be eligible for reimbursement
from government funding.
Response: While not strictly relevant
to this rulemaking, part 121 cargo
operators were eligible for
reimbursement.
Amendment No. 121–299 (Part 121)
Eight commenters responded to the
final rule request for comments: four
individuals, one cargo airline
association, one cargo airline holding
company, one U.S. cargo airline, and
one foreign cargo airline. Comments
generally were supportive of the rule.
They addressed security procedures and
screening, door installation costs,
surveillance cameras, the rule
compliance date, and applicability.
Security Procedures and Screening
• Comment: One individual suggests
that security measures should be as
effective and enforced as stringently for
all cargo operations as they are for
passenger operations and that security
screening would be more effective than
hardened doors.
Response: Security screening
procedures for cargo operations are
different from those used for passenger
flights because of the limited number of
occupants permitted on board and the
airport environment into which cargo
airplanes operate. This rule provides
operators with an option of upgrading
flightdeck doors or adopting a TSAapproved security program.
• Comment: One commenter
recommends increasing the number of
personnel that would be responsible for
ensuring only authorized persons are
granted access to operational areas and
the aircraft. Another commenter
suggests arming the pilots.
Response: Air cargo operators are
already performing screening measures
for the limited number of occupants
allowed on all-cargo airplanes.
Requiring a new crewmember position,
such as a security guard, is beyond the
scope of this rule. Arming of pilots in
all-cargo operations is underway in
accordance with Section 609 of Public
Law 108–76.
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• Comment: A cargo airline holding
company requests the FAA provide
more specificity about the nature of the
security procedures. The commenter
states: (1) The TSA has, in effect,
nullified an FAA regulation conferring
specific benefits on carriers and
criticizes TSA’s action as likely to erode
the business opportunities for a number
of carriers, create a discriminatory
regulatory environment that
disadvantages some carriers, and favor
others; (2) the FAA should reinforce its
intent by publishing a supplemental
notice advising the TSA to develop
security based procedures for carriers,
rather than requiring reinforcing
flightdeck doors; and (3) each carrier
should be permitted to tailor its
procedures to its particular operation.
Response: The FAA responds in the
following manner: (1) We do not agree
that the TSA security program required
by this rule has nullified an FAA
regulation or created a discriminatory
environment within the air cargo
industry; (2) while the FAA collaborates
with the TSA on matters that concern
both organizations, the TSA makes the
final determination concerning content
of security programs that are subject to
their approval; and (3) the TSAapproved program contains a provision
for air carriers to request alternative
procedures to those specified in the
program.
Surveillance Cameras
• Comment: Two individual
commenters suggested installation of a
video system or monitor that would
allow the flightcrew to see an individual
requesting entry onto the flightdeck.
One individual commenter suggested
that installation of surveillance cameras
would be more cost effective than
installation of a door.
Response: The FAA does not oppose
the use of video monitoring systems.
Use of surveillance cameras implies
installation of a flightdeck door, or
similar barrier, if one does not already
exist. The FAA did not mandate a video
system in addition to a flightdeck door
in this rule. Most flightdeck doors have
a viewing device that permits the crew
to see a person in the area outside the
flightdeck door before allowing access.
Compliance Date
• Comment: A cargo airline states its
vendor would not be able to meet the
October 1, 2003, deadline and asks
about options for all-cargo operators
beyond the deadline date.
Response: For security reasons, the
FAA did not extend the compliance
deadline.
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Applicability to Fleet
• Comment: A cargo airline
association opposes the requirement for
a TSA security program to apply to all
airplanes in an operator’s fleet,
including those with hardened doors, if
a single airplane within that fleet
requires the security program. The
commenter requests the FAA amend the
rule to apply to an individual aircraft,
rather than an entire fleet of that aircraft
type.
Response: The FAA disagrees. The
FAA rule requires a hardened door or
implementation of an approved TSA
security program. Under Title 49 CFR
1544, 1546, and 1550.7(b), the TSA
security program requires all all-cargo
operators to have a TSA-approved
program applicable to every all-cargo
aircraft in its fleet. Accordingly, because
the FAA rule is based on the TSA
security program, and the security
program applies to all all-cargo aircraft
in a fleet, the FAA does not intend to
amend this final rule.
Amendment Nos. 129–33 and –36 (Part
129)
Thirty-seven commenters responded
to the part 129 final rules and July 30
public meeting. Most commenters
support the rule. Commenters included
airline and pilot associations, air
carriers, and individuals. They
addressed security, the rule compliance
date, harmonization efforts with foreign
authorities, access to the cockpit,
requirements for reinforced doors on allcargo airplanes, and cost and funding.
Balanced Approach to Security
• Comment: One association cautions
against discarding all previous
procedures and solutions that served
well before the September 11 terrorist
attacks. The commenter recommends
solving the problem on the ground by
screening passengers, staff, luggage,
cargo, and equipment. The commenter
suggests balancing safety, security, and
financial concerns proportionately so
the security costs do not hinder people
from flying and or the security process
does not dampen their desire to fly.
Response: The FAA and the TSA have
worked together on risk and threat
assessments to determine applicability
of proposed security requirements to
airplane design and operation. For the
last several years, we focused attention
on the certification and installation of
reinforced flightdeck doors. We,
however, are working other security
related initiatives as well. Both the FAA
and the TSA expect to continue to
coordinate closely to ensure a systemic
approach to aviation security.
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Coordination and Harmonization by
Regulatory Authorities
• Comment: Three commenters,
including two associations and one
operator, ask that, before introducing
more legislation, the European Union,
the United States, and the ICAO
coordinate more with foreign
governments, operators, and
stakeholders, including part 129 air
carriers.
One of the associations states it
believes that States must work together
in a cooperative manner, with input
from the industry to ensure harmonized
implementation of globally recognized
standards.
Response: The FAA currently does, to
a great extent, and will continue to work
and coordinate with other regulatory
authorities on standards and
recommended practices.
Authority To Grant Access to the
Cockpit and Operational Procedural
Requirements for Locking the Door
• Comment: One association suggests
the need for additional training and
operations procedures to include
communications and a way to visually
monitor the area adjacent to the cockpit
door. The commenter states that the
cockpit door is one of the emergency
exits and that new technical procedures
and solutions must not hinder the
emergency operation.
Response: We agree and recognize
that good communications and
interaction between the flightcrew and
cabin attendants has a positive
influence on flight safety and security.
A closed and locked door, however, can
be a challenge to effecting good
communications. Thus, the FAA
currently requires training and
operations procedures to include
communications and a way to visually
verify the identity of an individual prior
to granting access to the flightdeck for
U.S. airlines. The FAA also requires
foreign air carriers to have procedures in
place to prevent access to the flightdeck
that are acceptable to the national
authority having oversight.
The FAA is considering rulemaking to
propose requirements for visually
monitoring the area outside and
adjacent to the flightdeck and for
alerting the flightcrew to any suspected
threats and is attempting to harmonize
the proposal with other national
authorities.
• Comment: One association states
that the captain should retain final
authority on when to lock the door. This
same association and one individual
commenter state the captain should
have discretion on whom to admit to the
flightdeck.
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Response: The FAA disagrees. The
events of September 11, 2001,
emphasized the need to maintain the
integrity of the flightdeck and command
of the aircraft at all costs. In response to
the Transportation Security Act, the
FAA required operators to adopt
operational changes restricting access to
the flightdeck in flight. Because of the
demands on aviation safety and
security, Amendment No. 129–33
adopted § 129.28(d), which required
procedures to restrict access to the
flightdeck. This action is consistent
with Amendment 27 to Annex 6, Part 1
of the ICAO standards, which includes
the requirement to lock the flightdeck
door.
• Comment: One operator states the
FAA and manufacturers should ensure
that Phase II door designs and
procedural requirements are such that
the flight crew does not have to vacate
control seats to allow entry to the
flightdeck and that current Phase II door
designs do not cause intrusive noise in
the crew rest area.
Response: The FAA agrees that
requirements for sleeping quarters must
be met, including the procedures
associated with entry into the
flightdeck. While the rule does not
specifically address this issue, since the
issue does not relate to flightdeck
security per se, each carrier will have to
satisfy its national authority that these
requirements continue to be met. Up to
now, all approvals for long range
airplanes include provisions that enable
the crew to operate the flightdeck door
lock without having to leave their seat.
The rule requires part 129 air carriers to
have procedures in place, acceptable to
the civil aviation authority responsible
for oversight, that prevent unauthorized
persons access to the flightdeck. As
such, the operator has the discretion to
install video systems, acceptable to its
civil aviation authority, to monitor the
areas external to the cockpit and
authorize entry to the flightdeck without
requiring the pilots to vacate their
control seats. ICAO has adopted
standards associated with monitoring
the area outside the flight deck and
discretely alerting the flightcrew of
suspected threats.
• Comment: One commenter states
that § 129.28 should include detailed
emergency exit procedures for pilots
and that doors should have two-person
integrity on all internal locking devices
to assure proper security procedures are
followed. This commenter also suggests
that detailed emergency exit procedures
should be included for pilots who are
locked behind the reinforced doors in
the event of an accident or other
emergencies. Finally, the commenter
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states the proposed rule neglects to
cover how authorized persons may exit
the flightdeck during abnormal
situations.
Response: The flightdeck door is
already subject to several requirements
that affect its structural integrity,
including: protection during
decompression, emergency egress
considerations, and the capability for
rescue personnel to enter the flightdeck
in the event the flightcrew is unable to
egress on its own. After reviewing
several design proposals, the FAA has
determined that the requirements can be
accommodated by proper door design
and installation. As a result aircraft
meeting the requirements of this rule
should continue to meet all the
requirements necessary to maintain a
valid certificate of airworthiness from
the country of registry.
Requirement To Have a Reinforced Door
and Lock the Cockpit Door on All-Cargo
Airplanes
• Comments: One operator suggests
rephrasing § 129.28 (a)(2) and 129.28 (c)
to read ‘‘* * * between the pilot
compartment and any other
compartment when occupied by persons
other than those listed in 129.28 (d)(3).’’
The operator states this will exclude allcargo airplanes that carry only persons
listed in 129.28 (d)(3) from the
requirements to reinforce the door. The
operator also states this would solve the
issue of conflicting requirements on
those all-cargo airplanes (such as the
MD–11) equipped with an airworthiness
placard requiring that the cockpit door
be latched open during taxi, takeoff and
landing.
• Another operator states that
certification requirements for the MD–
11 require the door to remain open
during takeoff and landing for
emergency egress. This operator asks
how it can comply with both the rule
and certification requirements when
they are in conflict since the rule
requires the door to be closed and
locked.
Response: The rule, as written,
provides the relief suggested by the
commenters. If an all-cargo airplane
does not have a door, then the entire
airplane is defined as a flightdeck.
Section 129.28 (d) defines those
individuals who can be admitted to the
flightdeck. If only those individuals
identified in § 129.28(d)(3) are carried
on an all-cargo airplane, no door is
required. Although this meets the intent
of the FAA’s regulatory requirement, the
TSA may impose additional security
requirements on all-cargo airplanes.
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Security on All-Cargo Airplanes
Six commenters, including one
association and five air carriers
recommend that all-cargo airplanes
either be exempted from the flightdeck
door requirements or that the deadline
for implementation be extended. They
suggest that the nature of cargo
operations is different from passenger
operations and actions necessary to
enhance flightdeck security can also be
different. Several commenters expressed
similar concerns as part 121 operators
about extending the compliance
deadlines.
• Comments: One commenter states
that all-cargo airlines, especially those
operated on a charter basis, pose the
least risk of having airplanes used as
weapons by terrorists since all-cargo
charter operations do not publish a
schedule for service. Also, it would be
difficult to know in advance when an
aircraft would be operated.
• Both the association and one air
carrier suggest that it is possible to
implement operational and security
procedures, such as background checks,
to ensure adequate security and provide
an alternative means of compliance.
• Two air carriers cite the
inconsistency of the regulation because
cargo airplanes without flightdeck doors
are not subject to the provisions of the
regulation. One carrier contends that
this inconsistency fails to effectively
enhance flightdeck security. The second
carrier states the rule places it at a
competitive disadvantage against air
carriers whose fleet is designed and
operated with no doors without
improving the security environment.
According to the second carrier, the
crew exits the flightdeck regularly to
visit the galley or lavatory, perform
routine inspection, or in the event no
flight attendants are available, ensure
the area is clear and secure before a
flightcrew member exits. The carrier
states that in the event of an intrusion
when a flightcrew member is absent
from the flightdeck, a reinforced door
will prevent that return to the flightdeck
to assist the other flightcrew member(s).
• Another air carrier expressed
concern at the July 30, 2002, public
meeting, that it would be physically
impossible to modify all affected aircraft
by April 9, 2003. The commenter
suggests making U.S. passenger carriers
a higher priority because they present a
higher security risk.
• One carrier comments that the FAA
did not amend part 121 to require
reinforced flightdeck doors on all cargo
operations until Federal Express
petitioned it to do so. The commenter
indicates and there is no evidence in the
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public record that the reinforced cockpit
door requirement has appreciably
increased aircraft security or reduced
the threat of a terrorist attack in the U.S.
The carrier urges the FAA to develop a
policy for granting exemptions to all
cargo carriers that have developed
enhanced all-cargo security programs
that provide for equivalent, or perhaps
greater, levels of security than that
brought about by the installation of
reinforced doors.
• Comment: One air carrier states that
the purpose of the rule can better be
served with less economic impact if the
FAA would focus specifically on
carriers posing a significant risk and
apply the rule with flexibility in light of
what carriers can feasibly accomplish.
The commenter argues that putting
foreign all-cargo carriers on the same
timetable as the more risk-prone U.S.
passenger carriers may actually
compromise security as it may result in
some passenger aircraft being delayed in
favor of freighter aircraft for which the
commenter asserts the flightdeck door
retrofit accomplishes very little increase
in real security.
Response: The FAA found many of
the points made by these commenters to
be persuasive. In recognizing that
differences exist in the design and
operation of all-cargo airplanes, the
FAA allowed all-cargo carriers to opt for
an alternate means of compliance by
adopting enhanced security procedures
approved by the TSA in lieu of
installing a reinforced door.
• Comment: One association
indicates that it supports reinforced
doors on all cargo aircraft. The
commenter cites the following factors
that, when combined, increase the
opportunity for a terrorists attack: (1)
Limited ground security procedures in
place at cargo operations versus those in
place for passenger carrying operations;
(2) company employees carried as
‘‘passengers’’ or ‘‘occupants’’ on cargo
aircraft, have far less scrutiny than farepaying passengers in common carriage;
(3) ramp areas for cargo operations are
less controlled than in typical passenger
operations; and (4) cargo operations lack
the benefit of flight attendant or
passenger intervention in the event of
an unwanted intruder on an aircraft.
Response: The FAA believes that
improvements in security are necessary
for all-cargo operations that permit the
carriage of persons, whether on the
flightdeck or aft of it. For reasons of
security, the details surrounding all the
issues will not be discussed here.
However, based on all available
information, the FAA adopted
Amendment Nos.121–299 and 129–38,
which permit operators to adopt
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21567
security programs, in lieu of installation
of a reinforced flightdeck door in certain
situations. These actions were taken in
coordination with the TSA and are
discussed further elsewhere in this
document.
Overflight Operations
• Comments: One association
believes that an aircraft on an overflight
could potentially pose a threat if the
aircraft were commandeered. The
commenter states that although the FAA
does not have the means for
surveillance of foreign carriers unless
they are on the ground, aircraft
conducting overflight of the U.S.
operating under part 129 must be
required to comply with the
requirement to install a reinforced door.
• One air carrier asks if the addition
of the word ‘‘overflight’’ is intentional
in § 129.28.
Response: The FAA excluded
overflights in Amendment No. 129.36,
in which we state:
In general, the FAA has no practical means
of conducting surveillance of foreign carriers
other than on the ground within the United
States. Accordingly, we are changing the
phrase ‘‘within the United States or on
overflights’’ to read ‘‘within the United
States, except for overflights’’ in § 129.28.
The FAA’s position does not prevent the
TSA or other Federal agencies, from
imposing such security requirements.
Editorial and Technical Changes
• Comments: One commenter
proposes all carriers entering the United
States be required to have annual
certification for the durability and safe
operation of the flightdeck door.
• One commenter suggests § 129.28(c)
include that flightdeck door locks be
impenetrable by unauthorized keys or
other devices.
• One commenter suggests editorial
changes to § 129.28(c).
Response: The FAA’s intent is to keep
requirements consistent with those of
parts 25 and 121. Therefore, no changes
in wording were made.
• Comment: One air carrier suggests
using the effective date of the rule, June
21, 2002, as a cockpit door installation
reference date instead of January 15,
2002, in § 129.28 (a)(2).
Response: The FAA agrees and the
date has been changed by Amendment
No. 129–38.
• Comment: One commenter
recommends including provisions for
airplanes being ferried for maintenance
to the U.S.
Response: The FAA disagrees because
the rule already allows for maintenance
ferry flights as long as no passengers are
on board.
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• Comment: One carrier suggests
including a termination date of April 8,
2003, for the purposes of the
requirements of § 129.28 (a).
Response: The FAA disagrees. The
provision that an airplane must have a
reinforced door meeting certain
resistance and ballistic penetration
requirements supercedes the ‘‘Phase 1’’
locking requirement for the flightdeck
door.
• Comment: One commenter supports
the intent of the rule but suggests
restricting additional items to be carried
on board the aircraft. The commenter
also suggests that the flightcrew needs
an alternative to help the crew without
leaving the cockpit.
Response: ICAO has recognized the
need for the aircraft crew to operate as
a team and provides guidance material
for use by airlines in developing
training programs that ensure both cabin
and flight crews can act in the most
appropriate manner to minimize the
consequences of unlawful interference.
These requirements are outlined in the
ICAO standards on training programs.
The FAA agrees with this concept and
is considering rulemaking to require a
means for the cabin crew to discretely
notify the flightcrew in the event of
suspicious activity or security breaches.
Identification of items prohibited to
be carried aboard air carriers is the
responsibility of the TSA and is beyond
the scope of this rule.
• Comment: One air carrier states that
the original § 129.13 requires that
aircraft carry current airworthiness
certificates (COA). The air carrier
submits that the new except clause can
be read as a waiver to the requirement
to carry a COA. The commenter states
this would introduce a discrepancy with
Article 29 of the Chicago Convention
that requires every aircraft used
internationally to carry a valid COA.
Response: After September 11, the
FAA issued a series of SFARs that first
allowed, and then required the
installation of internal locking devices
on flightdeck doors pending installation
of reinforced doors. Section 129.28(a)
adopted a requirement for a similar
improvement in flightdeck security for
foreign air carriers. This requirement
was consistent with SFAR 92. As noted
in the preamble of the SFARs, the
required modifications had the potential
to compromise other airworthiness
standards. As a result, § 129.28(b)
provided relief from the otherwise
applicable provisions of § 129.13 only
until April 9, 2003, because of the short
deadline. Because the FAA does not
directly regulate airworthiness of
foreign registered aircraft, modifications
required by § 129.28(a) may have also
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Jkt 205001
required relief from the country of
registry. Based on communications with
other national authorities, the FAA
determined that most were prepared to
grant such relief and this amendment
should not have created a conflict. In
the event a country was not willing to
grant such relief, the FAA was prepared
to work out a mutually acceptable
solution. This issue, however, became
moot after April 9, 2003, because
§ 129.28(b) was only applicable until
April 9, 2003 to provide relief from a
short deadline. Any requested
deviations submitted after April 9, 2003
were handled as a normal deviation
request, and not under § 129.28(b).
Business Aircraft and Those With a
Seating Capacity of Less Than 20
Passenger Seats
• Comments: Two air carriers and one
air carrier association urge the FAA to
exclude business aircraft and those
transport category airplanes originally
type certificated with 19 seats or less.
• One association opposes limiting
the security requirements based upon
size of aircraft or type of mission.
Response: The FAA agrees with the
first set of position. Amendment No.
129.36 exempts transport category
airplanes originally type certificated
with 19 or less passenger seats or
transport category all-cargo airplanes
with a payload capacity of 7,500 pounds
or less from the flightdeck door
requirements. This requirement is
effectively equivalent to the part 121
requirements for flightdeck security.
The FAA disagrees with the other
position for the reasons stated in the
preamble of Amendment No. 129–36.
Part 129 covers the operational
equivalent to both parts 121 and 135 in
terms of size of airplanes used and
scope of operations conducted. The
FAA’s intent was to have consistent
flightdeck security requirements for
parts 121 and 129. The application of
the current requirement is effectively
equivalent to airplanes of the same size
as those used in part 121 operations.
The FAA has not applied the flightdeck
security requirements to carriers
operating under part 135 in the United
States and did not intend for the
requirements to be extended to the types
of airplanes operated under part 135.
Funding for New Security Requirements
• Comment: One airline association
commented that it believes governments
have direct responsibility for aviation
security and it’s funding to include
protection of citizens. The association
states that the security threat against
airlines is a manifestation of the threat
against the state and, therefore, the cost
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of aviation security should be borne by
the states from general revenues and not
from user fees.
Response: Discussion of funding is
beyond the scope of this rule.
Costs of Reinforcing the Flightdeck
Doors
Ten commenters, representing
airlines, manufacturers, and
associations, address the FAA’s
estimated cost. (Note: In response to the
comments it received on the first rule,
the FAA increased its estimate of the
costs of the security doors in the later
rulemakings.)
• Comments: All the commenters
state the initial estimate of $12,000 to
$17,000 was too low. Two state a door
kit for a B–747–200 costs between
$190,000 and $195,000. One states that
a door kit for a B–747–400 costs
$38,500. Three report that the cost of a
door kit for a widebody is $39,000. Six
state that the cost of a door kit for a
narrowbody is between $23,000 and
$40,000.
Response: When we initially
estimated the security door kit cost, no
security doors had been certificated to
the new standards. Consequently, our
estimate was based on preliminary
responses from potential vendors.
Subsequently, in the final rule for large
cargo airplanes, the FAA revised its
estimated cost for the security door kit
to be between $42,000 and $50,000 for
a narrowbody airplane, $50,000 and
$60,000 for a widebody airplane, and
$210,000 for a B–747–100/200/300. By
way of comparison, a non-security
flightdeck door costs about $5,600.
The difference between our initial
cost estimate and the current security
door kit prices can be largely attributed
to technological complexities that were
not anticipated and to additional door
features that are not required by the
final rule. One technological complexity
is the safety issue associated with
flightdeck decompression situations.
Coping with this complexity required
more design and bulkhead modification
than the FAA had anticipated.
Similarly, the amount of destructive
testing necessary to certificate the doors
and the amount of these costs to recover
from the kit prices were greater.
However, security door kits also contain
items beyond the requirements of the
rule (e.g., remote keypad entry systems)
that make the door kit price greater than
the cost necessary to meet the new
standards. As a result, although the kit
prices overestimate the actual cost of a
door that would meet the FAA
requirements, the prices in the previous
paragraph are those faced by the
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Number of Out-of-Service Days
operators, notwithstanding volume
discounts for bulk purchases.
Labor Cost of Door Installation
• Comment: An individual
commenter states all [flightdeck] doors
should be corrected, saving money in
the long run. The commenter goes on to
state that airlines are already spending
money on security and that either
option will result in expenditure.
Response: Most commenters state
their support of a security program as an
alternate means of compliance for cargo
airline security requirements. However,
a hardened door remains available as an
option to operators that elect to take this
course of action.
• Comment: One individual disagrees
that a cost savings will be realized by a
security program, but asks who will pay
for security screening.
Response: As indicated in the rule, if
all airlines in the cargo industry chose
to develop a TSA approved security
program instead of installing hardened
flightdeck doors, operators will save a
total of about $68.117 million between
2003 and 2013. Should an individual
operator, however, determine that it is
more advantageous to install a hardened
flightdeck door, the operator has the
option to do so. Security screening is
covered by TSA regulations and not
addressed in this rule.
• Comment: A cargo airline asked
how the new security program
implementation would be funded. The
commenter states that a large air cargo
airline would require, on average, about
$250,000 initially, with annual costs of
about $120,000.
Response: This rule does not provide
funding for security programs.
• Comment: Six commenters indicate
the FAA’s initial estimate of labor cost
of $3,000 is too low and that the retrofit
and installation cost should be between
$3,000 and $50,000 per door.
Response: We agree that our initial
labor cost estimate was too low. We
believe, however, that most of the
commenters overestimated the amount
of hours needed to retrofit flightdeck
doors. In Amendment No. 121.299, the
FAA determined that it takes between
72 and 96 labor hours (at a cost of
$5,760 to $7,680) to install and fully test
reinforced doors and associated systems
for most airplanes. It takes about 172
hours ($13,760) to retrofit a B–747–100/
200/300. However, the FAA now
estimates that retrofitting an Airbus
widebody takes between 250 to 300
labor hours (a cost of $20,000 to
$24,000).
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• Comments: The FAA had initially
estimated that retrofitting the security
doors would involve 1 out-of-service
day. In Amendment No. 121.299, the
FAA revised the estimate to 2-to 4-out
of service days. Two commenters state
that it would take about 10 days or less
to retrofit the door electrical system and
the bulkhead reinforcement vent for
Airbus twin aisle airplanes. Another
commenter states that it would take 6 to
7 days of down time to complete the
retrofit on the Airbus twin aisle
airplanes. Another commenter states
that it will take 4 days to retrofit its B–
747–400s. A final commenter states that
it was taking 3 days to retrofit their
single aisle airplanes although they
hoped to be able to reduce that to 2
days.
Response: The FAA agrees that its
initial estimate of 1 out-of-service day
was too low. As installers became more
familiar with the procedures, the
vendors and some airline maintenance
supervisors told us that 2 days out of
service was their experiences for Boeing
airplanes, other than the B–747–100/
200. Those B–747s were taking 6 to 8
days to install because the weight of the
doors was too much for the first level
ceiling to support and the ceiling
needed to be reinforced. We disagree
with the 10-day estimate for Airbus
airplanes. These same individuals told
us that it took them 4 days to install the
doors on Airbus airplanes. At the time
of the comments, the security door kits
were months from being certificated and
significant installation issues had not
been answered at that time.
Value of Out-of-Service Time
• Comments: One association
comments that one of its member
carriers loses $350,000 per out-ofservice day. Another commenter reports
that it costs $140,000 per day in parking
fees and lost revenue to ground one of
its airplanes. Another commenter states
that the out-of-service losses will be
greater than the costs to retrofit the
security doors.
Response: The FAA has used an
average lease rate for the various
airplanes models to proxy the losses to
the aviation system from taking an
airplane out of service. These daily rates
range from about $4,750 to $14,000—
depending on the airplane model. We
disagree with the magnitudes of these
losses because the reported losses do
not consider offsetting gains. For
example, while individual airline A
loses revenue on the day its airplane is
grounded, rather than canceling their
trips, most of the passengers will re-
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21569
book their flights on airline B or on
another Airline A flight. When airline B
grounds its airplane, most of those
passengers will re-book their flights on
airline A or on another airline B flight
rather than canceling the trip. These
subsequent offsetting gains are not
accounted for in the reported out-ofservice time costs. Thus, when the
entire airline as a whole is considered
over the period of compliance, the
losses are not as large as those reported
in the comments.
Total Fleet Retrofitting Cost
• Comment: One association
estimates a total cost of $30 million for
the door kits and labor to retrofit its
members’ 632 affected airplanes.
• Response: We agree. The average
cost per airplane is about $47,750,
which is a reasonable estimate.
Maintenance and Fuel Costs
Comment: One airline states that it
would incur an annual cost of $50,000
for maintenance and fuel costs due to
these security doors.
• Response: We agree. It is early in
the life history of these doors and the
need to replace or repair them any more
frequently than the doors they replaced
is unknown. Given that unknown
aspect, in the cargo airplane final rule,
the FAA conservatively assumed that
the door is replaced every 5 years for an
average annual maintenance cost of
$10,000. The FAA also assumed that the
average safety door system adds 100
pounds to a large airplane. This
additional weight would have minimal
impacts on weight and distance
limitations. Based on a study by the
Washington Consulting Group, Impact
of Weight Changes on Aircraft Fuel
Consumption, March 1994, p.16, each
pound of weight increases fuel
consumption by 12.25 gallons per year.
The resulting total fuel increase is 1,225
gallons per year, which, at a price of $1
per gallon results in a $1,225 fuel
consumption increase. The result is a
total estimated increased maintenance
and fuel cost of $11,225.
Economic Analysis
• Comment: One commenter suggests
that the FAA adjust the benefits and
costs section to specifically address the
cost of the B–747–100/200/300 and
reconsider whether the rule is still costbeneficial for all kinds of operations,
including all-cargo operations.
Response: The FAA disagrees. The
potential catastrophic losses from a
terrorist using a cargo airplane are
similar to the potential losses from a
terrorist using a passenger airplane.
Consequently, the FAA determines that
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the potential benefits would outweigh
even recalculated costs.
Transportation Security Administration
Activity
The Aviation and Transportation
Security Act enacted by Congress on
November 19, 2001, transferred airplane
security to the TSA, but the physical
airplane structure and the operational
rules of airplanes remain the
responsibility of the FAA. The TSA
worked very closely with the FAA in
developing and coordinating the
flightdeck security rules, as well as
providing an alternative means for cargo
operators who are required to have a
reinforced cargo door.
Additionally, as an interim step, the
TSA issued security directives to
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require random inspection of air cargo
and to require foreign all-cargo air
carriers to comply with the same cargo
security procedures that domestic air
carriers must follow. Passenger aircraft
that carry cargo and all-cargo planes,
both foreign and domestic, will be
subject to the random inspections on
flights within, into, and out of the U.S.
For longer term action, the TSA is
implementing a broad Air Cargo
Strategic Plan that employs a layered
approach to security critical elements of
the entire air cargo supply chain. The
plan incorporates a threat-based risk
management approach to ensure that all
cargo deemed high-risk is inspected. It
focuses on strategies to secure air cargo
perimeters, facilities, equipment, and
personnel. Enhanced background
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checks on persons who have access to
cargo or cargo aircraft and required
screening of persons transported aboard
cargo planes are among many measures
that will be adopted.
Conclusion
After consideration of the comments
submitted in response to the final rules
and in view of actions being
implemented by the TSA for safe air
cargo operations, the FAA has
determined that no further rulemaking
action is necessary.
Issued in Washington, DC, on April 19,
2005.
Marion C. Blakey,
Administrator.
[FR Doc. 05–8259 Filed 4–25–05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 79 (Tuesday, April 26, 2005)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 21562-21570]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-8259]
[[Page 21561]]
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Part III
Department of Transportation
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Federal Aviation Administration
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14 CFR Part 23, et al.
Security Considerations on the Flightdeck of Transport Category
Airplanes; Proposed Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 79 / Tuesday, April 26, 2005 /
Proposed Rules
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Parts 23, 25, 121, and 129
[Docket Nos. 2002-11032; 2002-12504, and 2003-15653]
RIN 2120-AI54 (Formerly 2120-AH56), -AH70, and -AH96
Security Considerations on the Flightdeck of Transport Category
Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Disposition of comments on final rule.
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SUMMARY: Since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the agency has
published six amendments and has held one public meeting on standards
for reinforcing flightdeck doors. The FAA sought public comments for
each amendment, but all six were effective immediately on publication.
The agency disposed of some comments that related specifically to the
reinforced door requirements in later amendments. This action disposes
of the remaining comments.
ADDRESSES: You may review the public dockets (Docket Nos. 2002-11032,
2002-12504, and 2003-15653) in the Dockets Office between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Dockets
Office is on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the Department
of Transportation, Room Plaza 401, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington,
DC 20590-0001. Also you may review the public docket on the Internet at
https://dms.dot.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For part 25 issues, contact Jeff
Gardlin, Airframe and Cabin Safety Branch (ANM-115), Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service, Federal Aviation
Administration, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056;
telephone (425) 227-2136, facsimile (425) 227-1149, e-mail:
jeff.gardlin@faa.gov. For part 121, contact Joe Keenan, Air Carrier
Operations Branch (AFS-220), Flight Standards Services, Federal
Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC
20591; telephone (202) 267-9579; facsimile (202) 267-5229; e-mail:
joe.keenan@faa.gov. For part 129, contact Marlene Livack, International
Programs & Policy Office (AFS-50) 800 Independence Avenue, SW.,
Washington, DC 20591, telephone (202) 385-4678;, facsimile (202) 385-
4561, e-mail: marlene.livack@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
On September 11, 2001, the United States experienced terrorist
attacks when aircraft were commandeered and used as weapons. These
actions demonstrated a need to improve the design, operational, and
procedural security of the flightdeck. On November 19, 2001, Congress
enacted Public Law 107-71, the Aviation and Transportation Security Act
(the Act), which specifies that improved flightdeck security must be
applied to aircraft operating in passenger or intrastate air
transportation. Section 104 of the Act directed the FAA to issue a
final rule, without seeking public comment prior to adoption addressing
the security requirement for aircraft that are currently required to
have flightdeck doors.
As a result, the FAA issued a series of Special Federal Aviation
Regulations (SFAR 92) and four final rules without notice, and held a
public meeting.
Special Federal Aviation Regulations (SFAR-92) (66 FR
51546, October 9, 2001; 66 FR 52835, October 17, 2001; 66 FR 58650,
November 21, 2001; and 67 FR 12820, March 19, 2002; Docket No. FAA-
2002-10770) first allowed, and then required, the installation of
internal locking devices on the flightdeck doors.
On January 15, 2002, we amended Title 14, Code of Federal
Regulations (14 CFR) parts 25 and 121 to set new standards for
flightdeck doors (Amendment Nos. 25-106 and 121-288; 67 FR 2118; Docket
No. FAA-2002-11032). Section 25.795 was amended to set standards for
reinforcing flightdeck doors. The new standards require them to resist
forcible intrusion and ballistic penetration. Section 121.313(f) was
amended to mandate installation of the reinforced doors on certain
airplanes not later than April 9, 2003. The affected airplanes included
transport category all-cargo airplanes operated under part 121 which
had flightdeck doors installed on or after January 15, 2002.
On June 21, 2002, the FAA amended 14 CFR part 129 to apply
similar standards to foreign operators operating into the United States
(Amendment No. 129-33; 67 FR 42450; Docket No. FAA-2002-12504). Section
129.28 requires installation of the reinforced door not later than
April 9, 2003. The affected airplanes include transport category all-
cargo airplanes operated under part 129 which had flightdeck doors
installed on or after June 21, 2002. A public meeting to address the
amendment was held on July 30.
On December 23, 2002, we amended part 129 as a result of
input received from a public hearing held on July 30, 2002, and
comments received as a result of the rulemaking (Amendment No. 129-36;
67FR79822; Docket No. FAA-2002-12504). The amendment clarifies the
applicability of the part 129 regulations for foreign operators.
On July 18, 2003, the FAA issued Amendment Nos. 121-299
and 129-38. These amendments provided an alternative means of
compliance to operators of all-cargo airplanes that are required to
have a reinforced security flightdeck door. The rule allows operators
of large cargo airplanes to either install reinforced flightdeck doors
or adopt enhanced security procedures approved by the Transportation
Security Administration. We also changed the cargo portion of the rule
to replace the April 9, 2003, compliance date with October 1, 2003, to
correspond to section 355 of the Consolidated Appropriations
Resolution, Public Law 108-7.
In Amendment Nos. 121-299 and 129-38, the FAA also disposed of some
comments that had been received for the earlier amendments that related
specifically to the reinforced door requirements. At that time, we
indicated that we would respond later, in a separate document, to all
other comments. This action represents that document.
Discussion of Comments
Amendment Nos. 25-106/121-288 (Parts 25 and 121)
Thirty-two commenters, representing airlines, aerospace
manufacturers, a labor organization, and individuals, responded to the
request for comments. Two of these commenters submitted comments
directly to the FAA without entering them in the public docket because
of their security-sensitive nature; their comments will not be
discussed for that reason. Some comments that were submitted before the
regulation and associated advisory were published (https://www.faa.gov/
regulations/) were actually addressed in those documents. These
comments address cargo operations, applying the rule more broadly, the
performance standards test methods, inflight access to the flightdeck,
and the availability of advisory material. Comments also address the
FAA's assessment of the cost of the rule.
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Cargo Operation
Ten commenters address the need to extend the requirements for
flightdeck door improvements to all-cargo operations.
Comment: Commenters were divided on whether (1) the
current requirements should be extended to any all-cargo airplane
operating in part 121 service, or (2) the current requirements should
be rescinded for all-cargo airplanes that have flightdeck doors
installed and carry persons aft of the flightdeck.
Response: The FAA believes the proponents of each argument make
many good points on an issue that is not simple. We believe that (1)
all-cargo operations need to be treated consistently, and (2)
improvements in security are necessary for all-cargo operations that
permit the carriage of persons, whether on the flightdeck or aft of it.
For reasons of security, the details surrounding all the issues will
not be discussed here. However, based on all available information, the
FAA adopted Amendment Nos.121-299 and 129-38, which permit operators to
adopt security programs, in lieu of installation of a reinforced
flightdeck door in certain situations. Regardless of whether the
operator has a flightdeck door installed on its airplanes, the operator
is still subject to security requirements of the TSA and FAA. These
actions were taken in coordination with the Transportation Security
Administration (TSA) and are discussed further elsewhere in this
document.
Rule Applicability
Three commenters address extending the existing standards to other
types of airplanes operating in part 121 service.
Comments: Two commenters state that improved flightdeck
doors were impractical for other than transport category airplanes, and
would not have a practical impact on security in any case. They point
out that many of these airplanes do not have separate flightdecks and,
on those that do, the structure necessary to support a reinforced
flightdeck door is not present. They note that emergency egress from
these airplanes is frequently predicated on there being no obstacle
between the flightdeck and emergency exits, and the installation of
flightdeck door would compromise egress. Similarly, these commenters
note that other airworthiness requirements (such as accommodating rapid
decompression) would be very difficult to address were a flightdeck
door installed where none previously existed.
One commenter encourages adoption of similar standards for
commuter category airplanes (part 23). He argues for an equivalent
approach to security for airplanes operating in commercial passenger
service.
Response: After extensive discussion with the TSA to determine the
threat/risk present and the most appropriate method of mitigation, we
do not plan to extend the requirements for reinforced flightdeck doors
beyond their current applicability. If additional action is needed to
extend these requirements to commuter category airplanes, we will do so
in separate rulemaking, and we will address any egress problems.
Comment: One commenter proposes 75,000 pounds as the lower
weight limit on airplanes required to comply with this requirement.
Response: The FAA disagrees. The proposed weight limit would
exclude a large number of significant size regional jets and airplanes
operating in part 121 service. As discussed in the preamble, the FAA
has already established the need for a door between the flightdeck and
the passenger cabin and includes airplanes less than 75,000 pounds.
Certain airplanes should have flightdeck doors, and this requirement
establishes performance criteria for those doors. To arbitrarily
establish a weight limit for incorporation of the performance
requirements would diminish the effect of the rule and reduce the
overall level of safety and security.
Performance Standards
Six commenters address the severity of the standards for intrusion
and ballistic penetration resistance. These commenters state that one
or both standards were not severe enough.
Comment: Commenters addressing the intrusion requirements
point out that there are ways to achieve higher than a 300 Joule (300J)
impact, and that the existing standard might not be adequate. One
commenter at the FAA public meeting on flightdeck security for foreign
operators questioned the adequacy of tension load requirements and
stated that the values required could easily be exceeded.
Response: We considered several factors in establishing the
requirement at 300 Joules. Based on the comments, we revisited the
standard and have concluded that it is adequate. First, the rule
requires that the impact be applied on very localized areas of the
door. In virtually all instances where higher than 300J could be
exerted, the impact would be spread over a greater area, effectively
reducing the severity of the impact locally. Second, as noted in the
rule, the intent of the requirement is not to make the door
impenetrable, but to significantly add to its ability to resist an
intruder, until other measures can be taken. Given the measures
necessary to actually generate more than 300J, the FAA is confident
that the current standard provides the level of protection necessary to
satisfy the intent of the requirement and significantly upgrade
security and safety.
Regarding the tension load requirement, it is possible to exert a
higher force on the doorknob or handle in some cases; however, the FAA
has concluded that this is not a practical concern. The installation
configuration of flightdeck doors on airplanes and the basic
frangibility of the doorknob does not compromise the intrusion
resistance of the door.
Comment: One commenter suggests that the standard be
modified to address a time element i.e., duration of an attack.
Response: We expect other measures would be invoked before an
intruder could sustain a prolonged attack on the door. In addition,
such a requirement is not suitable as a certification standard unless a
quantifiable way of measuring performance can be standardized. The FAA
is unaware of any such standard and, given the severity of the impact
and tension load requirements, is satisfied that the existing intrusion
standard is adequate.
Comment: One commenter suggests modifying the ballistic
penetration standard to require testing in conditions of extreme
humidity. The commenter notes that many ballistic materials can lose
their performance characteristics when wet, and is concerned that issue
is not being addressed.
Response: Prolonged exposure to very high humidity can affect
ballistic performance. This is not, however, a practical concern for
commercial airplanes. To the degree that humidity does vary in the
airplane, it is typically very low, and any exposure to higher humidity
would be for far shorter times than would be necessary to noticeably
affect the performance of the material. The FAA does not plan to change
the standard.
Comment: One commenter objects to the language in Advisory
Circular 25.795-2, which notes that protrusion of the bullet (i.e.,
partial penetration) is acceptable, as long as no penetration occurs.
The commenter suggests that bullets should not be allowed to protrude
through the door.
Response: We do not agree. As long as no penetration of the bullet
or fragments occurs, the door will have met its objective. From a
certification standpoint, this is a readily achievable standard that
does not require interpretation. On the other hand, a
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``partial protrusion'' could be interpreted in many ways and could lead
to non-standardized application of the requirement, for no real gain in
safety.
Comment: Two commenters believe that the ballistic and
intrusion requirements should be considered in combination with each
other, or with other failures. These commenters believe that the
standard should require, for example, that the door retain its
intrusion and ballistic resistance after the airplane experiences a
rapid decompression. The commenters suggest that the scenario whereby
the airplane experiences a rapid decompression and is subsequently
targeted for terrorist action is sufficiently likely to require
regulatory action.
Response: We do not agree. A rapid decompression sufficient to
compromise the integrity of the flightdeck door is a very severe and
infrequent event. The likelihood of this event, coupled with an
intruder on board, is extremely small. If the airplane experiences such
rapid decompression, it is unlikely that an intruder would be able to
carry out an action against the airplane because of the resultant
damage that would affect the flying conditions.
Finally, the practicality of designing a door that would provide
adequate venting for rapid decompression while still being intrusion
and ballistically resistant is questionable at best. Satisfying
decompression requirements without consideration of maintaining
security proved to be a very difficult certification issue; the FAA
doubts that such designs could be implemented in a timely manner, if at
all. With regard to whether the intrusion and ballistic requirements
should be considered in combination with each other, the FAA notes that
the current requirements are focused on preventing intrusion into the
flightdeck. As such, the ballistic requirements include consideration
of any failure that would permit the door to be opened, in addition to
the penetration resistance of the door itself. The FAA considers that
this provision adequately addresses the existing fleet and will provide
a high level of security. For future airplanes, the FAA will consider
the need to require penetration resistance following tests for
intrusion. Such a requirement would be more practical on new airplanes
than for a retrofit application and, while the improvement in security
is likely to be small, such designs may be more readily developed for a
new design with minimal cost.
Emergency Access to the Flightdeck
One commenter addresses the requirement for inflight access by
flight attendants in the event the crew becomes incapacitated.
Response: In accordance with Sec. 121.587(b), certificate holders
are already required to have FAA-approved procedures for opening,
closing, and locking the flightcrew compartment door. These procedures
may include the use of an FAA certificated electronic access system.
While the use of highly sophisticated systems for flightcrew
compartment access is not presently required, many certificate holders
have elected to use these systems voluntarily. The FAA has concluded
that the current requirements are sufficiently safe as written, and no
change is necessary.
Advisory Material
Four commenters addressed the advisory material.
Comment: One commenter that filed comments before the FAA
issued the regulation and advisory materials states that language in
draft advisory material reflects a product bias. He recommends that
such language be changed. A trade association commenter supports this
position.
Response: The FAA modified the final version of the
advisory material to reflect more generic language, although there was
never any intended endorsement of one product type over another. No
further comments on this topic were received during the comment period.
Comment: Two commenters request additional advisory
material. One commenter requests an advisory circular (AC) to address
the access systems discussed above. The other commenter requests
advisory material on minimum requirements for dispatch with regard to
the performance of the flightdeck door.
Response: Before issuing the rule, the FAA maintained a guidance
memorandum and a list of ``frequently asked questions.'' (See Web site
at: https://www.airweb.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rg
Policy.nsf/0/ 324ED6824765F7E D86256E600053490F?OpenDocument.) This
memorandum effectively serves as advisory material for the access
system. The FAA will consider whether a dedicated AC is needed for the
access system, however, there is no current plan for a separate AC.
The FAA has also developed a policy for use by the Flight
Operations Evaluation Boards that establishes Master Minimum lists that
the operators use to determine acceptable dispatch configurations. This
document is available at https://www.opspecs.com to all interested
parties and satisfies the request for guidance.
Other Designs
Comment: Two commenters state that a double door
arrangement, creating a chamber between the two doors outside the
flightdeck should be required. One commenter proposes designs for such
an arrangement, while one commenter refers to similar configurations
used by a foreign airline.
Response: We do not agree. Using two flightdeck doors will
typically magnify all other compliance issues, as discussed in the
preamble. In particular, venting for rapid decompression, emergency
egress, and smoke evacuation would be much more difficult to address
with two doors instead of one. The principal advantage of a double door
arrangement is that it separates the flightdeck from the cabin and both
doors would not have to be open at the same time.
With regard to the foreign operator that has this arrangement, the
FAA notes that this is a voluntary configuration that is used on only
one aircraft type. In addition, that operator has experienced problems
in satisfying certification requirements. While the FAA acknowledges
that such designs are possible, to retrofit them into existing
airplanes would be very complicated and would require a longer
compliance time than is considered prudent. For new airplanes, such
designs might be more feasible, and the FAA will consider whether the
benefits of a double door arrangement would outweigh the costs in any
future rulemaking. At this time, however, no action is planned.
Flightdeck Bulkhead
Comment: Two commenters propose that the bulkhead that
separates the flightdeck from the passenger cabin be subject to the
same standards as the flightdeck door.
Response: The FAA agrees and is in the process of proposing
requirements to adopt the same standards into part 25 that are
currently required for the flightdeck door. This requirement would
apply to new type design and would not require retrofit. For the
existing fleet, the flightdeck door represents the most significant
security weakness. The bulkheads are typically much more substantial
and contain equipment and features on the flightdeck that provide
inherent protection. While it would undoubtedly be an improvement to
apply the same standards to the bulkheads of airplanes
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in the existing fleet, the FAA concludes that this modification would
be very difficult and expensive for an incremental improvement in
security. To the extent that an operator can accomplish this
modification readily on a particular airplane type, the FAA would
encourage it to do so.
Funding
Comment: Two commenters state that, since certain cargo
operators are being required to modify airplanes, they should be
eligible for reimbursement from government funding.
Response: While not strictly relevant to this rulemaking, part 121
cargo operators were eligible for reimbursement.
Amendment No. 121-299 (Part 121)
Eight commenters responded to the final rule request for comments:
four individuals, one cargo airline association, one cargo airline
holding company, one U.S. cargo airline, and one foreign cargo airline.
Comments generally were supportive of the rule. They addressed security
procedures and screening, door installation costs, surveillance
cameras, the rule compliance date, and applicability.
Security Procedures and Screening
Comment: One individual suggests that security measures
should be as effective and enforced as stringently for all cargo
operations as they are for passenger operations and that security
screening would be more effective than hardened doors.
Response: Security screening procedures for cargo operations are
different from those used for passenger flights because of the limited
number of occupants permitted on board and the airport environment into
which cargo airplanes operate. This rule provides operators with an
option of upgrading flightdeck doors or adopting a TSA-approved
security program.
Comment: One commenter recommends increasing the number of
personnel that would be responsible for ensuring only authorized
persons are granted access to operational areas and the aircraft.
Another commenter suggests arming the pilots.
Response: Air cargo operators are already performing screening
measures for the limited number of occupants allowed on all-cargo
airplanes. Requiring a new crewmember position, such as a security
guard, is beyond the scope of this rule. Arming of pilots in all-cargo
operations is underway in accordance with Section 609 of Public Law
108-76.
Comment: A cargo airline holding company requests the FAA
provide more specificity about the nature of the security procedures.
The commenter states: (1) The TSA has, in effect, nullified an FAA
regulation conferring specific benefits on carriers and criticizes
TSA's action as likely to erode the business opportunities for a number
of carriers, create a discriminatory regulatory environment that
disadvantages some carriers, and favor others; (2) the FAA should
reinforce its intent by publishing a supplemental notice advising the
TSA to develop security based procedures for carriers, rather than
requiring reinforcing flightdeck doors; and (3) each carrier should be
permitted to tailor its procedures to its particular operation.
Response: The FAA responds in the following manner: (1) We do not
agree that the TSA security program required by this rule has nullified
an FAA regulation or created a discriminatory environment within the
air cargo industry; (2) while the FAA collaborates with the TSA on
matters that concern both organizations, the TSA makes the final
determination concerning content of security programs that are subject
to their approval; and (3) the TSA-approved program contains a
provision for air carriers to request alternative procedures to those
specified in the program.
Surveillance Cameras
Comment: Two individual commenters suggested installation
of a video system or monitor that would allow the flightcrew to see an
individual requesting entry onto the flightdeck. One individual
commenter suggested that installation of surveillance cameras would be
more cost effective than installation of a door.
Response: The FAA does not oppose the use of video monitoring
systems.
Use of surveillance cameras implies installation of a flightdeck
door, or similar barrier, if one does not already exist. The FAA did
not mandate a video system in addition to a flightdeck door in this
rule. Most flightdeck doors have a viewing device that permits the crew
to see a person in the area outside the flightdeck door before allowing
access.
Compliance Date
Comment: A cargo airline states its vendor would not be
able to meet the October 1, 2003, deadline and asks about options for
all-cargo operators beyond the deadline date.
Response: For security reasons, the FAA did not extend the
compliance deadline.
Applicability to Fleet
Comment: A cargo airline association opposes the
requirement for a TSA security program to apply to all airplanes in an
operator's fleet, including those with hardened doors, if a single
airplane within that fleet requires the security program. The commenter
requests the FAA amend the rule to apply to an individual aircraft,
rather than an entire fleet of that aircraft type.
Response: The FAA disagrees. The FAA rule requires a hardened door
or implementation of an approved TSA security program. Under Title 49
CFR 1544, 1546, and 1550.7(b), the TSA security program requires all
all-cargo operators to have a TSA-approved program applicable to every
all-cargo aircraft in its fleet. Accordingly, because the FAA rule is
based on the TSA security program, and the security program applies to
all all-cargo aircraft in a fleet, the FAA does not intend to amend
this final rule.
Amendment Nos. 129-33 and -36 (Part 129)
Thirty-seven commenters responded to the part 129 final rules and
July 30 public meeting. Most commenters support the rule. Commenters
included airline and pilot associations, air carriers, and individuals.
They addressed security, the rule compliance date, harmonization
efforts with foreign authorities, access to the cockpit, requirements
for reinforced doors on all-cargo airplanes, and cost and funding.
Balanced Approach to Security
Comment: One association cautions against discarding all
previous procedures and solutions that served well before the September
11 terrorist attacks. The commenter recommends solving the problem on
the ground by screening passengers, staff, luggage, cargo, and
equipment. The commenter suggests balancing safety, security, and
financial concerns proportionately so the security costs do not hinder
people from flying and or the security process does not dampen their
desire to fly.
Response: The FAA and the TSA have worked together on risk and
threat assessments to determine applicability of proposed security
requirements to airplane design and operation. For the last several
years, we focused attention on the certification and installation of
reinforced flightdeck doors. We, however, are working other security
related initiatives as well. Both the FAA and the TSA expect to
continue to coordinate closely to ensure a systemic approach to
aviation security.
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Coordination and Harmonization by Regulatory Authorities
Comment: Three commenters, including two associations and
one operator, ask that, before introducing more legislation, the
European Union, the United States, and the ICAO coordinate more with
foreign governments, operators, and stakeholders, including part 129
air carriers.
One of the associations states it believes that States must work
together in a cooperative manner, with input from the industry to
ensure harmonized implementation of globally recognized standards.
Response: The FAA currently does, to a great extent, and will
continue to work and coordinate with other regulatory authorities on
standards and recommended practices.
Authority To Grant Access to the Cockpit and Operational Procedural
Requirements for Locking the Door
Comment: One association suggests the need for additional
training and operations procedures to include communications and a way
to visually monitor the area adjacent to the cockpit door. The
commenter states that the cockpit door is one of the emergency exits
and that new technical procedures and solutions must not hinder the
emergency operation.
Response: We agree and recognize that good communications and
interaction between the flightcrew and cabin attendants has a positive
influence on flight safety and security. A closed and locked door,
however, can be a challenge to effecting good communications. Thus, the
FAA currently requires training and operations procedures to include
communications and a way to visually verify the identity of an
individual prior to granting access to the flightdeck for U.S.
airlines. The FAA also requires foreign air carriers to have procedures
in place to prevent access to the flightdeck that are acceptable to the
national authority having oversight.
The FAA is considering rulemaking to propose requirements for
visually monitoring the area outside and adjacent to the flightdeck and
for alerting the flightcrew to any suspected threats and is attempting
to harmonize the proposal with other national authorities.
Comment: One association states that the captain should
retain final authority on when to lock the door. This same association
and one individual commenter state the captain should have discretion
on whom to admit to the flightdeck.
Response: The FAA disagrees. The events of September 11, 2001,
emphasized the need to maintain the integrity of the flightdeck and
command of the aircraft at all costs. In response to the Transportation
Security Act, the FAA required operators to adopt operational changes
restricting access to the flightdeck in flight. Because of the demands
on aviation safety and security, Amendment No. 129-33 adopted Sec.
129.28(d), which required procedures to restrict access to the
flightdeck. This action is consistent with Amendment 27 to Annex 6,
Part 1 of the ICAO standards, which includes the requirement to lock
the flightdeck door.
Comment: One operator states the FAA and manufacturers
should ensure that Phase II door designs and procedural requirements
are such that the flight crew does not have to vacate control seats to
allow entry to the flightdeck and that current Phase II door designs do
not cause intrusive noise in the crew rest area.
Response: The FAA agrees that requirements for sleeping quarters
must be met, including the procedures associated with entry into the
flightdeck. While the rule does not specifically address this issue,
since the issue does not relate to flightdeck security per se, each
carrier will have to satisfy its national authority that these
requirements continue to be met. Up to now, all approvals for long
range airplanes include provisions that enable the crew to operate the
flightdeck door lock without having to leave their seat. The rule
requires part 129 air carriers to have procedures in place, acceptable
to the civil aviation authority responsible for oversight, that prevent
unauthorized persons access to the flightdeck. As such, the operator
has the discretion to install video systems, acceptable to its civil
aviation authority, to monitor the areas external to the cockpit and
authorize entry to the flightdeck without requiring the pilots to
vacate their control seats. ICAO has adopted standards associated with
monitoring the area outside the flight deck and discretely alerting the
flightcrew of suspected threats.
Comment: One commenter states that Sec. 129.28 should
include detailed emergency exit procedures for pilots and that doors
should have two-person integrity on all internal locking devices to
assure proper security procedures are followed. This commenter also
suggests that detailed emergency exit procedures should be included for
pilots who are locked behind the reinforced doors in the event of an
accident or other emergencies. Finally, the commenter states the
proposed rule neglects to cover how authorized persons may exit the
flightdeck during abnormal situations.
Response: The flightdeck door is already subject to several
requirements that affect its structural integrity, including:
protection during decompression, emergency egress considerations, and
the capability for rescue personnel to enter the flightdeck in the
event the flightcrew is unable to egress on its own. After reviewing
several design proposals, the FAA has determined that the requirements
can be accommodated by proper door design and installation. As a result
aircraft meeting the requirements of this rule should continue to meet
all the requirements necessary to maintain a valid certificate of
airworthiness from the country of registry.
Requirement To Have a Reinforced Door and Lock the Cockpit Door on All-
Cargo Airplanes
Comments: One operator suggests rephrasing Sec. 129.28
(a)(2) and 129.28 (c) to read ``* * * between the pilot compartment and
any other compartment when occupied by persons other than those listed
in 129.28 (d)(3).'' The operator states this will exclude all-cargo
airplanes that carry only persons listed in 129.28 (d)(3) from the
requirements to reinforce the door. The operator also states this would
solve the issue of conflicting requirements on those all-cargo
airplanes (such as the MD-11) equipped with an airworthiness placard
requiring that the cockpit door be latched open during taxi, takeoff
and landing.
Another operator states that certification requirements
for the MD-11 require the door to remain open during takeoff and
landing for emergency egress. This operator asks how it can comply with
both the rule and certification requirements when they are in conflict
since the rule requires the door to be closed and locked.
Response: The rule, as written, provides the relief suggested by
the commenters. If an all-cargo airplane does not have a door, then the
entire airplane is defined as a flightdeck. Section 129.28 (d) defines
those individuals who can be admitted to the flightdeck. If only those
individuals identified in Sec. 129.28(d)(3) are carried on an all-
cargo airplane, no door is required. Although this meets the intent of
the FAA's regulatory requirement, the TSA may impose additional
security requirements on all-cargo airplanes.
[[Page 21567]]
Security on All-Cargo Airplanes
Six commenters, including one association and five air carriers
recommend that all-cargo airplanes either be exempted from the
flightdeck door requirements or that the deadline for implementation be
extended. They suggest that the nature of cargo operations is different
from passenger operations and actions necessary to enhance flightdeck
security can also be different. Several commenters expressed similar
concerns as part 121 operators about extending the compliance
deadlines.
Comments: One commenter states that all-cargo airlines,
especially those operated on a charter basis, pose the least risk of
having airplanes used as weapons by terrorists since all-cargo charter
operations do not publish a schedule for service. Also, it would be
difficult to know in advance when an aircraft would be operated.
Both the association and one air carrier suggest that it
is possible to implement operational and security procedures, such as
background checks, to ensure adequate security and provide an
alternative means of compliance.
Two air carriers cite the inconsistency of the regulation
because cargo airplanes without flightdeck doors are not subject to the
provisions of the regulation. One carrier contends that this
inconsistency fails to effectively enhance flightdeck security. The
second carrier states the rule places it at a competitive disadvantage
against air carriers whose fleet is designed and operated with no doors
without improving the security environment. According to the second
carrier, the crew exits the flightdeck regularly to visit the galley or
lavatory, perform routine inspection, or in the event no flight
attendants are available, ensure the area is clear and secure before a
flightcrew member exits. The carrier states that in the event of an
intrusion when a flightcrew member is absent from the flightdeck, a
reinforced door will prevent that return to the flightdeck to assist
the other flightcrew member(s).
Another air carrier expressed concern at the July 30,
2002, public meeting, that it would be physically impossible to modify
all affected aircraft by April 9, 2003. The commenter suggests making
U.S. passenger carriers a higher priority because they present a higher
security risk.
One carrier comments that the FAA did not amend part 121
to require reinforced flightdeck doors on all cargo operations until
Federal Express petitioned it to do so. The commenter indicates and
there is no evidence in the public record that the reinforced cockpit
door requirement has appreciably increased aircraft security or reduced
the threat of a terrorist attack in the U.S. The carrier urges the FAA
to develop a policy for granting exemptions to all cargo carriers that
have developed enhanced all-cargo security programs that provide for
equivalent, or perhaps greater, levels of security than that brought
about by the installation of reinforced doors.
Comment: One air carrier states that the purpose of the
rule can better be served with less economic impact if the FAA would
focus specifically on carriers posing a significant risk and apply the
rule with flexibility in light of what carriers can feasibly
accomplish. The commenter argues that putting foreign all-cargo
carriers on the same timetable as the more risk-prone U.S. passenger
carriers may actually compromise security as it may result in some
passenger aircraft being delayed in favor of freighter aircraft for
which the commenter asserts the flightdeck door retrofit accomplishes
very little increase in real security.
Response: The FAA found many of the points made by these commenters
to be persuasive. In recognizing that differences exist in the design
and operation of all-cargo airplanes, the FAA allowed all-cargo
carriers to opt for an alternate means of compliance by adopting
enhanced security procedures approved by the TSA in lieu of installing
a reinforced door.
Comment: One association indicates that it supports
reinforced doors on all cargo aircraft. The commenter cites the
following factors that, when combined, increase the opportunity for a
terrorists attack: (1) Limited ground security procedures in place at
cargo operations versus those in place for passenger carrying
operations; (2) company employees carried as ``passengers'' or
``occupants'' on cargo aircraft, have far less scrutiny than fare-
paying passengers in common carriage; (3) ramp areas for cargo
operations are less controlled than in typical passenger operations;
and (4) cargo operations lack the benefit of flight attendant or
passenger intervention in the event of an unwanted intruder on an
aircraft.
Response: The FAA believes that improvements in security are
necessary for all-cargo operations that permit the carriage of persons,
whether on the flightdeck or aft of it. For reasons of security, the
details surrounding all the issues will not be discussed here. However,
based on all available information, the FAA adopted Amendment Nos.121-
299 and 129-38, which permit operators to adopt security programs, in
lieu of installation of a reinforced flightdeck door in certain
situations. These actions were taken in coordination with the TSA and
are discussed further elsewhere in this document.
Overflight Operations
Comments: One association believes that an aircraft on an
overflight could potentially pose a threat if the aircraft were
commandeered. The commenter states that although the FAA does not have
the means for surveillance of foreign carriers unless they are on the
ground, aircraft conducting overflight of the U.S. operating under part
129 must be required to comply with the requirement to install a
reinforced door.
One air carrier asks if the addition of the word
``overflight'' is intentional in Sec. 129.28.
Response: The FAA excluded overflights in Amendment No. 129.36, in
which we state:
In general, the FAA has no practical means of conducting
surveillance of foreign carriers other than on the ground within the
United States. Accordingly, we are changing the phrase ``within the
United States or on overflights'' to read ``within the United
States, except for overflights'' in Sec. 129.28.
The FAA's position does not prevent the TSA or other Federal agencies,
from imposing such security requirements.
Editorial and Technical Changes
Comments: One commenter proposes all carriers entering the
United States be required to have annual certification for the
durability and safe operation of the flightdeck door.
One commenter suggests Sec. 129.28(c) include that
flightdeck door locks be impenetrable by unauthorized keys or other
devices.
One commenter suggests editorial changes to Sec.
129.28(c).
Response: The FAA's intent is to keep requirements consistent with
those of parts 25 and 121. Therefore, no changes in wording were made.
Comment: One air carrier suggests using the effective date
of the rule, June 21, 2002, as a cockpit door installation reference
date instead of January 15, 2002, in Sec. 129.28 (a)(2).
Response: The FAA agrees and the date has been changed by Amendment
No. 129-38.
Comment: One commenter recommends including provisions for
airplanes being ferried for maintenance to the U.S.
Response: The FAA disagrees because the rule already allows for
maintenance ferry flights as long as no passengers are on board.
[[Page 21568]]
Comment: One carrier suggests including a termination date
of April 8, 2003, for the purposes of the requirements of Sec. 129.28
(a).
Response: The FAA disagrees. The provision that an airplane must
have a reinforced door meeting certain resistance and ballistic
penetration requirements supercedes the ``Phase 1'' locking requirement
for the flightdeck door.
Comment: One commenter supports the intent of the rule but
suggests restricting additional items to be carried on board the
aircraft. The commenter also suggests that the flightcrew needs an
alternative to help the crew without leaving the cockpit.
Response: ICAO has recognized the need for the aircraft crew to
operate as a team and provides guidance material for use by airlines in
developing training programs that ensure both cabin and flight crews
can act in the most appropriate manner to minimize the consequences of
unlawful interference. These requirements are outlined in the ICAO
standards on training programs. The FAA agrees with this concept and is
considering rulemaking to require a means for the cabin crew to
discretely notify the flightcrew in the event of suspicious activity or
security breaches.
Identification of items prohibited to be carried aboard air
carriers is the responsibility of the TSA and is beyond the scope of
this rule.
Comment: One air carrier states that the original Sec.
129.13 requires that aircraft carry current airworthiness certificates
(COA). The air carrier submits that the new except clause can be read
as a waiver to the requirement to carry a COA. The commenter states
this would introduce a discrepancy with Article 29 of the Chicago
Convention that requires every aircraft used internationally to carry a
valid COA.
Response: After September 11, the FAA issued a series of SFARs that
first allowed, and then required the installation of internal locking
devices on flightdeck doors pending installation of reinforced doors.
Section 129.28(a) adopted a requirement for a similar improvement in
flightdeck security for foreign air carriers. This requirement was
consistent with SFAR 92. As noted in the preamble of the SFARs, the
required modifications had the potential to compromise other
airworthiness standards. As a result, Sec. 129.28(b) provided relief
from the otherwise applicable provisions of Sec. 129.13 only until
April 9, 2003, because of the short deadline. Because the FAA does not
directly regulate airworthiness of foreign registered aircraft,
modifications required by Sec. 129.28(a) may have also required relief
from the country of registry. Based on communications with other
national authorities, the FAA determined that most were prepared to
grant such relief and this amendment should not have created a
conflict. In the event a country was not willing to grant such relief,
the FAA was prepared to work out a mutually acceptable solution. This
issue, however, became moot after April 9, 2003, because Sec.
129.28(b) was only applicable until April 9, 2003 to provide relief
from a short deadline. Any requested deviations submitted after April
9, 2003 were handled as a normal deviation request, and not under Sec.
129.28(b).
Business Aircraft and Those With a Seating Capacity of Less Than 20
Passenger Seats
Comments: Two air carriers and one air carrier association
urge the FAA to exclude business aircraft and those transport category
airplanes originally type certificated with 19 seats or less.
One association opposes limiting the security requirements
based upon size of aircraft or type of mission.
Response: The FAA agrees with the first set of position. Amendment
No. 129.36 exempts transport category airplanes originally type
certificated with 19 or less passenger seats or transport category all-
cargo airplanes with a payload capacity of 7,500 pounds or less from
the flightdeck door requirements. This requirement is effectively
equivalent to the part 121 requirements for flightdeck security.
The FAA disagrees with the other position for the reasons stated in
the preamble of Amendment No. 129-36. Part 129 covers the operational
equivalent to both parts 121 and 135 in terms of size of airplanes used
and scope of operations conducted. The FAA's intent was to have
consistent flightdeck security requirements for parts 121 and 129. The
application of the current requirement is effectively equivalent to
airplanes of the same size as those used in part 121 operations. The
FAA has not applied the flightdeck security requirements to carriers
operating under part 135 in the United States and did not intend for
the requirements to be extended to the types of airplanes operated
under part 135.
Funding for New Security Requirements
Comment: One airline association commented that it
believes governments have direct responsibility for aviation security
and it's funding to include protection of citizens. The association
states that the security threat against airlines is a manifestation of
the threat against the state and, therefore, the cost of aviation
security should be borne by the states from general revenues and not
from user fees.
Response: Discussion of funding is beyond the scope of this rule.
Costs of Reinforcing the Flightdeck Doors
Ten commenters, representing airlines, manufacturers, and
associations, address the FAA's estimated cost. (Note: In response to
the comments it received on the first rule, the FAA increased its
estimate of the costs of the security doors in the later rulemakings.)
Comments: All the commenters state the initial estimate of
$12,000 to $17,000 was too low. Two state a door kit for a B-747-200
costs between $190,000 and $195,000. One states that a door kit for a
B-747-400 costs $38,500. Three report that the cost of a door kit for a
widebody is $39,000. Six state that the cost of a door kit for a
narrowbody is between $23,000 and $40,000.
Response: When we initially estimated the security door kit cost,
no security doors had been certificated to the new standards.
Consequently, our estimate was based on preliminary responses from
potential vendors. Subsequently, in the final rule for large cargo
airplanes, the FAA revised its estimated cost for the security door kit
to be between $42,000 and $50,000 for a narrowbody airplane, $50,000
and $60,000 for a widebody airplane, and $210,000 for a B-747-100/200/
300. By way of comparison, a non-security flightdeck door costs about
$5,600.
The difference between our initial cost estimate and the current
security door kit prices can be largely attributed to technological
complexities that were not anticipated and to additional door features
that are not required by the final rule. One technological complexity
is the safety issue associated with flightdeck decompression
situations. Coping with this complexity required more design and
bulkhead modification than the FAA had anticipated. Similarly, the
amount of destructive testing necessary to certificate the doors and
the amount of these costs to recover from the kit prices were greater.
However, security door kits also contain items beyond the requirements
of the rule (e.g., remote keypad entry systems) that make the door kit
price greater than the cost necessary to meet the new standards. As a
result, although the kit prices overestimate the actual cost of a door
that would meet the FAA requirements, the prices in the previous
paragraph are those faced by the
[[Page 21569]]
operators, notwithstanding volume discounts for bulk purchases.
Labor Cost of Door Installation
Comment: An individual commenter states all [flightdeck]
doors should be corrected, saving money in the long run. The commenter
goes on to state that airlines are already spending money on security
and that either option will result in expenditure.
Response: Most commenters state their support of a security program
as an alternate means of compliance for cargo airline security
requirements. However, a hardened door remains available as an option
to operators that elect to take this course of action.
Comment: One individual disagrees that a cost savings will
be realized by a security program, but asks who will pay for security
screening.
Response: As indicated in the rule, if all airlines in the cargo
industry chose to develop a TSA approved security program instead of
installing hardened flightdeck doors, operators will save a total of
about $68.117 million between 2003 and 2013. Should an individual
operator, however, determine that it is more advantageous to install a
hardened flightdeck door, the operator has the option to do so.
Security screening is covered by TSA regulations and not addressed in
this rule.
Comment: A cargo airline asked how the new security
program implementation would be funded. The commenter states that a
large air cargo airline would require, on average, about $250,000
initially, with annual costs of about $120,000.
Response: This rule does not provide funding for security programs.
Comment: Six commenters indicate the FAA's initial
estimate of labor cost of $3,000 is too low and that the retrofit and
installation cost should be between $3,000 and $50,000 per door.
Response: We agree that our initial labor cost estimate was too
low. We believe, however, that most of the commenters overestimated the
amount of hours needed to retrofit flightdeck doors. In Amendment No.
121.299, the FAA determined that it takes between 72 and 96 labor hours
(at a cost of $5,760 to $7,680) to install and fully test reinforced
doors and associated systems for most airplanes. It takes about 172
hours ($13,760) to retrofit a B-747-100/200/300. However, the FAA now
estimates that retrofitting an Airbus widebody takes between 250 to 300
labor hours (a cost of $20,000 to $24,000).
Number of Out-of-Service Days
Comments: The FAA had initially estimated that
retrofitting the security doors would involve 1 out-of-service day. In
Amendment No. 121.299, the FAA revised the estimate to 2-to 4-out of
service days. Two commenters state that it would take about 10 days or
less to retrofit the door electrical system and the bulkhead
reinforcement vent for Airbus twin aisle airplanes. Another commenter
states that it would take 6 to 7 days of down time to complete the
retrofit on the Airbus twin aisle airplanes. Another commenter states
that it will take 4 days to retrofit its B-747-400s. A final commenter
states that it was taking 3 days to retrofit their single aisle
airplanes although they hoped to be able to reduce that to 2 days.
Response: The FAA agrees that its initial estimate of 1 out-of-
service day was too low. As installers became more familiar with the
procedures, the vendors and some airline maintenance supervisors told
us that 2 days out of service was their experiences for Boeing
airplanes, other than the B-747-100/200. Those B-747s were taking 6 to
8 days to install because the weight of the doors was too much for the
first level ceiling to support and the ceiling needed to be reinforced.
We disagree with the 10-day estimate for Airbus airplanes. These same
individuals told us that it took them 4 days to install the doors on
Airbus airplanes. At the time of the comments, the security door kits
were months from being certificated and significant installation issues
had not been answered at that time.
Value of Out-of-Service Time
Comments: One association comments that one of its member
carriers loses $350,000 per out-of-service day. Another commenter
reports that it costs $140,000 per day in parking fees and lost revenue
to ground one of its airplanes. Another commenter states that the out-
of-service losses will be greater than the costs to retrofit the
security doors.
Response: The FAA has used an average lease rate for the various
airplanes models to proxy the losses to the aviation system from taking
an airplane out of service. These daily rates range from about $4,750
to $14,000--depending on the airplane model. We disagree with the
magnitudes of these losses because the reported losses do not consider
offsetting gains. For example, while individual airline A loses revenue
on the day its airplane is grounded, rather than canceling their trips,
most of the passengers will re-book their flights on airline B or on
another Airline A flight. When airline B grounds its airplane, most of
those passengers will re-book their flights on airline A or on another
airline B flight rather than canceling the trip. These subsequent
offsetting gains are not accounted for in the reported out-of-service
time costs. Thus, when the entire airline as a whole is considered over
the period of compliance, the losses are not as large as those reported
in the comments.
Total Fleet Retrofitting Cost
Comment: One association estimates a total cost of $30
million for the door kits and labor to retrofit its members' 632
affected airplanes.
Response: We agree. The average cost per airplane is about
$47,750, which is a reasonable estimate.
Maintenance and Fuel Costs
Comment: One airline states that it would incur an annual cost of
$50,000 for maintenance and fuel costs due to these security doors.
Response: We agree. It is early in the life history of
these doors and the need to replace or repair them any more frequently
than the doors they replaced is unknown. Given that unknown aspect, in
the cargo airplane final rule, the FAA conservatively assumed that the
door is replaced every 5 years for an average annual maintenance cost
of $10,000. The FAA also assumed that the average safety door system
adds 100 pounds to a large airplane. This additional weight would have
minimal impacts on weight and distance limitations. Based on a study by
the Washington Consulting Group, Impact of Weight Changes on Aircraft
Fuel Consumption, March 1994, p.16, each pound of weight increases fuel
consumption by 12.25 gallons per year. The resulting total fuel
increase is 1,225 gallons per year, which, at a price of $1 per gallon
results in a $1,225 fuel consumption increase. The result is a total
estimated increased maintenance and fuel cost of $11,225.
Economic Analysis
Comment: One commenter suggests that the FAA adjust the
benefits and costs section to specifically address the cost of the B-
747-100/200/300 and reconsider whether the rule is still cost-
beneficial for all kinds of operations, including all-cargo operations.
Response: The FAA disagrees. The potential catastrophic losses from
a terrorist using a cargo airplane are similar to the potential losses
from a terrorist using a passenger airplane. Consequently, the FAA
determines that
[[Page 21570]]
the potential benefits would outweigh even recalculated costs.
Transportation Security Administration Activity
The Aviation and Transportation Security Act enacted by Congress on
November 19, 2001, transferred airplane security to the TSA, but the
physical airplane structure and the operational rules of airplanes
remain the responsibility of the FAA. The TSA worked very closely with
the FAA in developing and coordinating the flightdeck security rules,
as well as providing an alternative means for cargo operators who are
required to have a reinforced cargo door.
Additionally, as an interim step, the TSA issued security
directives to require random inspection of air cargo and to require
foreign all-cargo air carriers to comply with the same cargo security
procedures that domestic air carriers must follow. Passenger aircraft
that carry cargo and all-cargo planes, both foreign and domestic, will
be subject to the random inspections on flights within, into, and out
of the U.S. For longer term action, the TSA is implementing a broad Air
Cargo Strategic Plan that employs a layered approach to security
critical elements of the entire air cargo supply chain. The plan
incorporates a threat-based risk management approach to ensure that all
cargo deemed high-risk is inspected. It focuses on strategies to secure
air cargo perimeters, facilities, equipment, and personnel. Enhanced
background checks on persons who have access to cargo or cargo aircraft
and required screening of persons transported aboard cargo planes are
among many measures that will be adopted.
Conclusion
After consideration of the comments submitted in response to the
final rules and in view of actions being implemented by the TSA for
safe air cargo operations, the FAA has determined that no further
rulemaking action is necessary.
Issued in Washington, DC, on April 19, 2005.
Marion C. Blakey,
Administrator.
[FR Doc. 05-8259 Filed 4-25-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P