Flight School Security Awareness Training for Aircraft and Simulators

October 26, 2004
Scenarios – Flight School with Airplanes

Question
You observe an individual you do not recognize working in the engine compartment of one of the flight school's aircraft. He is wearing no uniform and has no identification badge. Additionally, he has a toolbox open at his feet and he is taking tools from the box and using them in the engine compartment.

Answer
Your first action should be to question the individual. You may be able to determine if the mechanic is authorized (not all wear a uniform), if it is an airplane owned by the flight school, or if the situation warrants contacting your supervisor. If the situation warrants contacting your supervisor, they will investigate the situation further and handle the follow- on actions, i.e., contacting local law enforcement and/or contacting the GA hotline. If the individual appearing to work on the aircraft is not an authorized aircraft mechanic, contact local law enforcement and continue to monitor until they arrive. Finally, contact the GA hotline to report the incident.

Question
You notice a man with some type of instrument in his hand walking around one of the aircraft on the parking ramp. Upon further investigation you realize the man is using the instrument to jimmy the lock and pry the airplane door and window open.

Answer
Your first response should be to contact a supervisor. Any time an unknown stranger is seen near an airplane with a weapon or tool that can harm people or do damage to an aircraft constitutes a serious situation and requires immediate intervention. The supervisor will take appropriate follow-on actions which may include contacting local law enforcement and reporting the incident to the GA hotline.

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