A Part 135 operator must adopt a security program approved by which entity?

A Part 135 operator must have a security program that is approved by the Principal Operations Inspector (POI) at the local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). This requirement is established to ensure that the security programs implemented by operators adhere to the standards and regulations set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The POI is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Part 135 operator and ensures compliance with FAA regulations, including those related to aviation security. By obtaining approval from the POI, the operator demonstrates that its security measures are adequate and compliant with the FAA’s security requirements.

In contrast, while local emergency services play a role in overall community safety, they do not directly oversee or approve aviation security programs for operators. Similarly, the FAA National Headquarters sets the overarching policies and regulations but relies on local FSDOs and their inspectors, like the POI, to enforce compliance at the operator level. The Corporate Security Officer may work on security plans within a company, but their plans still require the approval of regulatory authorities to ensure adherence to federal regulations.