HAI President Matt Zuccaro encourages all HAI members and operators of aircraft to review security ahead of the tenth anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. U.S. officials have stepped up warnings over the threat posed by lone individuals or small groups. At this time  no specific or credible information has been issued about planned terror attacks on the United States.

Commercial operators and private helicopter owners should, as a precaution, perform security assessments and take whatever steps are necessary to secure aircraft and prevent unauthorized use in light of the theft earlier this week in North Carolina of a private aircraft.

In addition to a review of current security measures, operators should review the protocols contained in the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Information Publication, the Airport Watch Program, and other industry best practice materials. These materials are available at TSA.gov or DHS.gov.

Any unusual or suspicious activity should be reported to the General Aviation Hotline at (866) GA SECURE (866-427-3287).