TSA TSA Regulations and Compliance 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which 49 CFR Part sets out the security program rules for U.S. aircraft operators, such as passenger airlines?
- Part 1520
- Part 1544 (Correct answer)
- Part 1546
- Part 1542
Correct answer: Part 1544
49 CFR Part 1544 covers aircraft operator security, including screening responsibilities and security programs.
Question 2: Which 49 CFR Part regulates indirect air carriers, such as freight forwarders that tender cargo to passenger airlines?
- Part 1544
- Part 1540
- Part 1548 (Correct answer)
- Part 1520
Correct answer: Part 1548
49 CFR Part 1548 requires indirect air carriers to hold and follow a TSA-approved security program.
Question 3: Under the 3-1-1 rule, what is the largest container of liquid, gel, or aerosol allowed in a carry-on bag?
- 4.0 ounces (118 mL)
- 5.0 ounces (148 mL)
- 1 quart (946 mL)
- 3.4 ounces (100 mL) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: 3.4 ounces (100 mL)
Each container may hold no more than 3.4 oz (100 mL), and all of them must fit in one quart-sized bag.
Question 4: Starting May 7, 2025, what does REAL ID enforcement mean for adults at TSA checkpoints?
- A REAL ID is needed only on international flights
- A state license or ID must be REAL ID-compliant, or the traveler must show another acceptable ID such as a passport (Correct answer)
- Every traveler must show a U.S. passport on domestic flights
- Only TSA PreCheck members may fly within the U.S.
Correct answer: A state license or ID must be REAL ID-compliant, or the traveler must show another acceptable ID such as a passport
Since May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs must meet REAL ID standards; other acceptable IDs, such as passports, still work.
Question 5: In airport security terms, what is the 'sterile area'?
- Any area where aircraft are fueled
- The airfield ramp where only badged employees may go
- The baggage claim area outside security
- The part of the airport where passengers have access after screening, controlled through screening (Correct answer)
Correct answer: The part of the airport where passengers have access after screening, controlled through screening
Under 49 CFR 1540.5, the sterile area is the passenger area past the checkpoint, where access is controlled by screening.
Question 6: An airport employee lets an unbadged person follow them through a SIDA access door. What is this violation usually called?
- A Secure Flight data error
- Interference with screening personnel
- Piggybacking (tailgating), an access control violation (Correct answer)
- Unauthorized disclosure of SSI
Correct answer: Piggybacking (tailgating), an access control violation
Letting an unauthorized person through a controlled access point breaks access-control rules and the airport security program.
Question 7: Which agency, now part of TSA, places armed federal law enforcement officers on commercial flights?
- U.S. Marshals Service
- Federal Protective Service
- Federal Air Marshal Service (Correct answer)
- Customs and Border Protection
Correct answer: Federal Air Marshal Service
The Federal Air Marshal Service is part of TSA and deploys air marshals on U.S. aircraft.
