Which agency is responsible for providing safety and security on airlines for passengers and crew?

The agency responsible for ensuring safety and security on airlines for passengers and crew is the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS). This agency operates undercover on flights to detect, deter, and prevent criminal acts that may compromise the safety and security of air travel. FAMS personnel are specially trained law enforcement officers who may intervene in any situation threatening the safety of passengers and flights, making their role critical in protecting the airline environment.

While other agencies play essential roles in aviation security, they have different primary responsibilities. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) focuses on security measures at airports, including screening of passengers and baggage before boarding. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigates aviation accidents and incidents to improve overall safety but does not engage in real-time security operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees aviation regulations and safety but is primarily focused on the operational aspects of aviation rather than direct security for passengers and crew. Thus, FAMS is uniquely positioned with a direct role in on-board security operations.