CrewPASS Becomes a Reality
July 17, 2008
Hundreds of ALPA pilots at three locations were able to use a streamlined and enhanced security process—CrewPASS—while traveling in uniform today. This marks the start of a 60-day demonstration program of CrewPASS at Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI), Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), and Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).
Implementing CrewPASS has been a top ALPA priority since early 2007. ALPA leaders and members applied significant pressure on Congress and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to put into operation the long-overdue program.
“ALPA is proud to have conceived of the CrewPASS concept, and of its partnership with the TSA and ARINC in making it a reality,” said Capt. John Prater. “Pilots are a significant component of our layered aviation security system. CrewPASS acknowledges that the pilot is the ultimate authority and has ultimate responsibility for the safety and security of a commercial airliner.”
ALPA was successful in convincing Congress to mandate TSA to implement an enhanced security process for crewmembers. When TSA wasn’t moving fast enough on its directive from Congress, ALPA turned up the pressure, including running a full-page ad in USAToday and picketing outside National Airport and TSA headquarters. During that rainy March day, TSA Administrator Kip Hawley left his office to talk with Capt. Prater, who participated in the demonstration. Since then, TSA has partnered with ALPA and ARINC to jumpstart the proof-of-concept program that began today.
Originally conceived by ALPA’s National Security Committee (NSC), CrewPASS is a security enhancement that leverages the industry-standard jumpseat verification technologies found within the TSA’s Cockpit Access Security System (CASS). By incorporating biometric processes with a secure database to verify pilot identity and employment status, CrewPASS enhances security and provides flight crewmembers with a dedicated portal for access to airport secure areas.
If you’re traveling in uniform out of any of the three test sites, you will be able to participate and help ensure the success of this test. ALPA has posted and will be updating a list of Questions and Answers regarding CrewPASS implementation at www.alpa.org. A full description of the CrewPASS concept is contained in the ALPA NSC’s white paper.
While CrewPASS will be available to all pilots who fly for airlines that use the CASS jumpseating program, a handful of airlines need software modification packages to upgrade to the CrewPASS test program. These include Evergreen, Hawaiian, Midwest, Ryan, and Trans States. ALPA will provide more information on these airlines as it becomes available.