International Trade Law News

Published by Jacobson Burton Kelley PLLC

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published in today's Federal Register the long-delayed final regulation requiring airport operators, aircraft operators, foreign air carriers and indirect air carriers to implement security measures in the air cargo supply chain as directed under the Aviation and Transportation Security Act. The final rule provides for screening of all property, cargo, carry-on and checked baggage, and other articles, that will be carried aboard a passenger aircraft operated by domestic or foreign air carriers and establishes a system to screen, inspect, or otherwise ensure the security of freight that is to be transported in all-cargo aircraft.

The TSA's final rule imposes many new requirements on freight forwarders. For example, the final rule will require employees of freight forwarders to attend TSA security training courses. Freight forwarders will also have to develop security plans and have them approved by TSA.

This final rule becomes effective on October 23, 2006. By November 22, 2006, indirect air carriers must comply with the requirements for indirect air carrier training. By December 1, 2006, aircraft operators, foreign air carriers and indirect air carriers must comply with the requirements for security threat assessments.