An Insight into the Federal Air Marshal Service and Its Operations

Q: Do private or charter flights typically include Federal Air Marshals?

No. Private and charter flights operate under TSA‑approved security programs for non‑scheduled aviation. These programs rely on documented procedures, designated security coordinators, and controlled access measures rather than routine onboard Federal Air Marshal presence.

Q: Can an operator request Federal Air Marshal involvement?

Federal Air Marshal deployment is determined solely by TSA through formal risk assessments and program applicability. Operators coordinate through approved security frameworks and official channels rather than requesting marshals directly.

Q: Are passengers on private or charter flights subject to verification procedures?

Yes. Passenger verification and screening requirements depend on aircraft category, operational authority, and destination. These procedures are carried out in accordance with TSA‑approved security programs and documented operator protocols.

Q: Why do some destinations involve additional procedures?

Certain airports and airspace fall under enhanced oversight programs requiring advance submission of operational details, identity verification, and procedural validation to maintain controlled traffic and security compliance.

Q: Who manages security coordination for a charter flight?

Security coordination is handled by the operator’s designated Aircraft Operator Security Coordinator (AOSC) and Ground Security Coordinator (GSC). They ensure TSA compliance, maintain documentation, and coordinate with airport and federal authorities throughout the operation.

05 February 2026

| By Just Aviation Team

Table of Contents

The Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) is a critical component of our national security apparatus, particularly in the aviation sector. Tasked with safeguarding commercial flights from criminal threats, these highly trained operatives work under the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to maintain order and prevent disruptions in the ground.

This article explains how the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) fits into the wider aviation oversight framework and why it remains relevant to business, private, and charter flight operators. It outlines where FAMS intersects with TSA programs, how operators should approach coordination, and what practical considerations support smooth, compliant flight operations.

What Is the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS)?

The Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS) operates under the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and supports aviation oversight through a discreet, intelligence-driven presence within the air transportation system.

For flight operators, FAMS represents:
A federal oversight layer within the broader aviation security framework
A risk-assessment authority that helps determine where enhanced measures are applied
A coordination partner for TSA programs affecting flight operations

While FAMS is most commonly associated with scheduled airline services, its role influences business, private, and charter aviation through shared regulatory structures and security programs.

Why Should Business and Charter Operators Understand FAMS?

Although business aviation flights do not routinely include Federal Air Marshals onboard, operator awareness is operationally valuable.

Understanding FAMS helps operators:

Align with TSA security expectations
Prepare for route-specific or airport-specific requirements
Coordinate efficiently with ground handling and airport authorities
Ensure uninterrupted, compliant flight planning

In short, FAMS knowledge supports predictability, compliance, and operational confidence.

How Does Risk-Based Oversight Influence Flight Planning?

FAMS operates using a risk-based oversight model that considers route characteristics, destination profiles, and broader operational factors. This approach allows federal resources to be applied efficiently while maintaining consistency across the aviation system.

For business and charter operators, this means that some routes or destinations may involve additional procedural steps or advance coordination. These requirements are not punitive or exceptional; they are designed to maintain orderly operations in airspace where traffic density or regulatory sensitivity is higher.

With proper planning and early coordination, these processes integrate smoothly into normal flight preparation.

What Security Regulations Affect Private and Charter Flights?

Private Charter Standard Security Program (PCSSP)

By law, large private/charter operators (Part 135/125/121 with heavy aircraft) must have a TSA-approved security program. This program mandates passenger and baggage screening (e.g. x-ray, metal detection) before boarding. In practice, this means using TSA-trained screeners or approved technologies to check everyone boarding a charter. All accessible baggage is screened, and background checks apply to any people with security roles.

Ground Security Coordinators

As noted, each flight must have a Ground Security Coordinator conducting security checks and access control at the FBO or airport ramp. They ensure only vetted crew and handlers reach the aircraft. They also perform daily briefings on security tasks and immediately fix any compliance issues. For business aviation, this might be the Director of Operations or a designated security manager.

DCA Access Standard Security Program (DASSP)

Flying into Reagan National Airport (DCA) is a special case. Because DCA is in a restricted airspace (near the White House), TSA requires any general aviation flight in/out to comply with the DASSP. This means:

Advance TSA Approval: Flights must apply to TSA at least 24 hours before and provide itinerary + manifest. All passengers undergo TSA background checks.
TSA-Vetted Operator & Airport: The flight must depart from a TSA-approved “gateway” airport (or FBO) and operate under a TSA-vetted security program (the DASSP permit).
Armed Security Officer Onboard: Every GA flight to/from DCA must have an armed security officer (ASO) on board. This officer is TSA-trained but not a regular Air Marshal; usually a private contractor or retired law enforcement paid by the operator. Operators (owner or charterer) must arrange and compensate for this ASO.

Flying private into DCA requires strict measures. Per TSA rules, every GA flight to Reagan National must carry an armed security officer onboard. These ASOs (not standard FAMs) are specially vetted and trained by FAMS. Only operators with TSA-approved DCA Access permits and gateway FBO departures are allowed.

Other Screening Rules

Any aircraft with MTOW over 100,310 lbs (about 45,500 kg) that is chartered under Part 125 or 135 must screen all passengers and checked bags, similar to an airline. Smaller business jets (below that threshold) may not have mandatory TSA screening, but many still implement robust private screening.

Why Should Business and Charter Operators Care About Air Marshal Operations?

Enhanced Safety

Even if FAMs don’t regularly fly on your charter, understanding their role boosts overall security planning. FAMS presence (or potential presence) raises awareness: operators learn what triggers TSA concern. For example, knowing that long international flights or governmental/diplomatic flights may need a marshal, so operators can proactively tighten their own screening and access controls on those routes.

Regulatory Compliance & Credibility

Coordinating with FAMS and TSA shows due diligence. In the unlikely event of an incident, having robust security plans (and perhaps prior communication with TSA) can be crucial. It also reassures clients and executives that “all bases are covered.” Agencies like TSA and the FBI recognize operators who follow best practices.

Complementing Marshal Coverage

Since marshals can only cover limited flights, business jets often become soft targets in theory. By aligning with FAMS intelligence (sharing passenger manifests, for example), operators become part of the homeland-security “net.” This can prompt TSA to include flights in other security programs (like VIPR or random inspections).

Deterrence Value

The possibility that an armed officer could be on board (or at least waiting at the gate) can deter ill-intentioned individuals. For instance, the Visible Intermodal Prevention & Response (VIPR) teams (often composed of undercover Air Marshals or federal officers) randomly patrol GA terminals or charters. Their presence (even if unseen) adds a layer of unpredictability.

Peace of Mind

Ultimately, the mission of FAMS (and by extension all air security efforts) is to let operators “focus on flying.” When crews and clients know that federal agents are watching the skies (and working with ground teams), confidence is higher. Operators can then focus on operations, knowing they’re working within a secure system.

FAQs

1. Do private or charter flights typically include Federal Air Marshals?

No. private and charter operations are conducted under TSA-approved security programs applicable to non-scheduled aviation, where security compliance is achieved through documented procedures, designated coordinators, and access controls rather than routine onboard federal presence.

2. Can an operator request Federal Air Marshal involvement?

Security measures are determined by TSA through formal risk evaluation and program applicability, and operators interface through approved security frameworks and official coordination channels rather than direct assignment requests.

3. Are passengers on private or charter flights subject to verification procedures?

Yes. Passenger verification and screening requirements are applied based on aircraft category, operational authority, and destination, and are executed in accordance with TSA-approved security programs and documented operating procedures.

4. Why do some destinations involve additional procedures?

Certain airports and airspace are governed by enhanced access and oversight programs that require advance submission of operational data, identity verification, and procedural validation to maintain controlled traffic management.

5. Who manages security coordination for a charter flight?

The operator’s designated Aircraft Operator Security Coordinator and Ground Security Coordinator are responsible for implementing TSA requirements, managing compliance documentation, and coordinating with airport and federal authorities throughout the operational cycle.

As we conclude our in-depth exploration of the Federal Air Marshal Service, it’s evident that their discreet yet vigilant presence is indispensable for the safety and security of the aviation industry.

Just Aviation understands the importance of such services and the peace of mind they provide to business flight operators and passengers alike. The dedication and expertise of these marshals ensure that the skies remain a safe space for commerce and travel. Trust in their unseen guardianship allows businesses like Just Aviation to focus on what they do best—soaring to new heights in the flight operations.

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