The Flight Training Security Program (FTSP) is a mandatory process for foreign students who are seeking training at a flight school regulated by the FAA, (Public Law 108-176, Dec 12, 2003). Federal Law prohibits flight schools from providing flight training to a foreign student unless the Secretary of Homeland Security first determines that the student does not pose a threat to aviation or national security. On September 20, 2004, the TSA issued an interim final rule establishing the FTSP.
All students who cannot provide appropriate proof of U.S. citizenship must complete the FTSP process for all flight training where this approval is required, including those who have a Permanent Resident Card (green card).
By legal mandate, USU may not provide certain flight training to any individual who cannot provide appropriate proof of U.S. citizenship until receiving TSA clearance.
TSA Approval for International Students:
Follow the steps below
Go online to the TSA Website
- Scroll to FAQ on top of the homepage and read entire the section.
- Create a Valid User ID and Password- Click the CREATE NEW STUDENT ACCOUNT link near the top of the login page. Enter the appropriate information to create a new account. Once the account is created, the student will then receive an email with their assigned USER ID and PASSWORD. If a problem arises go to FAQ’s again and scroll to applicable question.
The student will receive an email requesting a fee to be submitted via AFSP website--Instructions are found in the FAQ’s.
Fingerprints: Once payment is received, the student will receive email instructions for obtaining fingerprints.
- DO NOT GET FINGERPRINTED PRIOR TO RECEIVING THESE INSTRUCTIONS AS THEY WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
- Students MUST be fingerprinted at USU campus police ONLY
- Students MUST schedule an appointment - schedule TWO fingerprinting sessions online with the USU Deparment of Public Safety
- Print out the email received that gave permission to obtain fingerprints.
- Bring a prepaid, addressed envelope with a tracking number.
Passport: When requested, the student must provide a copy which is:
- Not Grainy
- Shows both eyes clearly
- Not too light or dark when copied
- All information on the passport copy must be legible and visible
The Chief Flight Instructor will be informed of the student’s request and its progress. He will be notified by TSA when their initial clearance has been awarded.
TSA Clearance for International Students takes SEVERAL WEEKS (over 6) and must be completed before ANY flying is permitted.
If TSA Clearance is not given before the end of the first week of the semester, students will be dropped from both the flight and ground courses.