1. TSA Security Threat Assessment Process

Before beginning flight training in the U.S., international students must undergo a Security Threat Assessment (STA) by the TSA. This clearance is required for anyone seeking to train for certain types of flight operations (e.g., training for a private pilot certificate or higher).

Who Needs TSA Clearance?

  • International Students: All international students who wish to begin flight training in the United States, regardless of the type of license they are training for (e.g., Private Pilot License (PPL), Commercial Pilot License (CPL), etc.), must complete the TSA Security Threat Assessment.
  • Foreign Nationals: U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals do not need TSA clearance for flight training.

2. Steps for TSA Clearance

Here’s a breakdown of the steps international students must take to complete the TSA clearance process for flight training:

Step 1: Submit the TSA Application Online

  • Action: International students must submit a TSA Security Threat Assessment application through the DHS (Department of Homeland Security) “Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP)” website. This is an online application system used to process security clearances for foreign nationals seeking flight training.
  • Website: TSA Alien Flight Student Program (AFSP)
  • Purpose: The application requires personal information, details about the flight school, the type of training program, and the student’s identification information. The student will need to provide:
    • Full name
    • Date of birth
    • Citizenship and nationality
    • Passport details
    • Course or flight training program specifics
  • Processing Time: TSA processing times can vary, but it typically takes 2-4 weeks for the TSA to complete the security assessment.

Step 2: Pay the TSA Fee

  • Action: A non-refundable fee is required for the TSA application. As of the latest guidelines, the fee is typically $130 per application.
  • Payment: Payment can be made online via the AFSP website. The TSA will not process the application without the fee.
  • Purpose: This fee helps cover the cost of the TSA’s background checks and processing.

Step 3: TSA Review and Approval

  • Action: The TSA reviews the application and conducts a background check to ensure that the student does not present a security threat. The process involves:
    • Checking the applicant’s name against various watchlists and databases.
    • Verifying the applicant’s eligibility based on immigration status, legal entry into the U.S., and other security considerations.
  • Purpose: The TSA’s goal is to ensure that the individual is not a threat to aviation safety and that the person is legally allowed to pursue flight training in the U.S.

Step 4: Receive TSA Clearance

  • Action: Once the TSA has completed the background check, the student will receive notification of the result via email.
    • Approval: If approved, the student will receive clearance to begin flight training in the U.S.
    • Denial: If the TSA denies the application, the student will be informed of the decision and provided with instructions on how to appeal or reapply if applicable.
  • Purpose: The TSA clearance is required before students can begin any flight training that involves certain aircraft operations, including solo flight or training for a pilot certificate.

Step 5: Submit TSA Approval to the Flight School

  • Action: Once the student has received TSA clearance, they must provide the TSA approval to the Designated School Official (DSO) at the flight school (e.g., Advanced International Aviation Academy).
    • The flight school will verify the TSA approval and ensure that the student is cleared to begin flight training.
    • The student will be registered for flight training, and the flight school will update the SEVIS system to reflect the student’s enrollment status.

3. Additional Considerations for TSA Clearance

Training Limitations Before TSA Approval

  • Action: International students are not allowed to begin flight training (even ground school) until they have received TSA approval. However, they can attend ground school or other classroom-based learning that does not involve flight training.
  • Purpose: The TSA security clearance specifically applies to any in-flight training, including solo flight and supervised flight hours, which are integral parts of the flight school program.

TSA Security Threat Assessment Validity

  • Action: TSA approval is valid for one year from the date of clearance.
    • If the student has not completed their training within the year, they may need to apply for a renewal of their TSA clearance.
  • Purpose: Renewal ensures that students who take extended breaks between training or delay their program remain in compliance with security regulations.

4. Types of Flight Training That Require TSA Clearance

Not all flight training requires TSA approval. The following types of training are subject to TSA clearance:

  • Private Pilot License (PPL)
  • Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
  • Flight Instructor Certification (CFI)
  • Instrument Rating
  • Multi-Engine Rating
  • Any other training for a certification or rating that involves flight operations

However, basic ground school or theoretical training that does not involve actual flight time is not subject to TSA clearance.

5. What Happens if TSA Clearance is Denied?

  • Action: If the TSA denies an application, the student will receive a notification detailing the reasons for the denial.
    • Appeals Process: The student may have the option to appeal the decision. The process for appeals typically involves contacting the TSA and providing additional information, if needed.
    • Alternate Arrangements: In some cases, the student may need to resolve issues with their immigration status or criminal background before applying again.
  • Purpose: The appeals process ensures that all students have a chance to clear up any misunderstandings or issues that might arise during the vetting process.

6. Coordination with the Flight School

  • Action: It’s important for international students to work closely with the flight school’s admissions team or Designated School Official (DSO) to ensure that the TSA clearance and all other necessary paperwork (such as the SEVIS I-20) are submitted correctly.
  • Purpose: The flight school will help guide the student through both the TSA and SEVIS processes to ensure all necessary approvals are obtained before beginning flight training.

Contact Us for TSA Assistance

For any questions or assistance with the TSA clearance process, please reach out to our Admissions Team at:

We’re here to support you through the application process and ensure you have everything you need to start your aviation training.

Conclusion

The TSA clearance process is a critical step for international students looking to pursue flight training in the U.S. It ensures that all foreign nationals are properly vetted for security before engaging in flight operations. By following the steps outlined above, students can navigate the TSA process and begin their flight training at Advanced International Aviation Academy smoothly and efficiently.