AFA International
- Though the name of the KCM program is changing, it is not going away and will continue to offer the same risk based alternate screening for crewmembers.
- The program will transition to full oversight by the TSA which had been planned for some time.
- Crewmembers can help ensure the continued success of the program by fully complying with all program rules and regulations. Do not carry prohibited items or another person’s property through KCM access points and do not use KCM when any portion of your travel itinerary contains personal international travel.
Unfounded rumors and blogs have been swirling this week about the future Known Crew Member. Let’s set the record straight.
KCM is NOT going away, even if there is a name change to the program. The same risk based alternate screening for crew will remain in place.
TSA will continue the planned transition of the agency’s full oversight of the program – previously it has been administered by A4A and ALPA.
Official statement from TSA:
TSA is continuously working with our aviation partners to ensure Known Crewmember® Program (KCM) compliance. KCM is a risk-based security program that provides eligible crewmembers with an alternative entry point into the airport sterile area, which may be separate from the passenger security-screening lanes. TSA has been exploring options to continue to modernize operations of the program as it transitions to assume complete oversight of the program capabilities and operations. This transition will continue over the next few years. TSA will continue to work with our industry partners to seek ways to minimize compliance violations and ensure eligible crewmembers are utilizing the program as it was intended.
That said, random screenings will continue. Crew should expect that this will especially increase as there are violations of the program. KCM is a privilege – not a right. It is critical that we continue to encourage crew to follow the rules of the program.
TSA continues to see a steady rate of KCM compliance violations in three main categories.
- Prohibited Items: The items that you can or cannot bring through the secured area may be found in the Prohibited Items List on the TSA website. The only exemption allowed for Flight Attendants while in uniform is from the 3-1-1 Liquids, Aerosols and Gels rule. Every Flight Attendant should check to ensure that they have not inadvertently left a prohibited item in their belongings before they bring them to the KCM entry point. If you have questions about whether an item is prohibited, refer to the TSA website.
- Other Person’s Property: KCM may be used for the crewmember and their personal property only.
- Personal International Travel: KCM regulations explicitly prohibit use for personal international travel.
Every Flight Attendant should check to ensure that they have not inadvertently left a prohibited item in their belongings before they bring them to the KCM entry point. Your cooperation will strengthen the crew screening program for the benefit of all.
