DCA Access Standard Security Program (DASSP)

Updated Feb 2, 2024

The TSA allows certain general aviation aircraft to apply for access to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) under the DCA Access Standard Security Program (DASSP). The following types of operations may apply:

• Operators under a partial security program approved by TSA under 49 CFR 1544.101(b), which operate aircraft with a passenger seating configuration of 31 or more but 60 or fewer seats.
• Operators under a Private Charter Standard Security Program (PCSSP) approved by the TSA under 49 CFR 1544.101(f), which operate aircraft with a passenger seating configuration of 61 or more seats or a maximum certificated takeoff weight of 45,500 kg (101,309 pounds) or more.
• Operators in scheduled or charter service with a Twelve-Five Standard Security Program (TFSSP) approved by TSA under 49 CFR 1544.101(d), which operate aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight of greater than 12,500 pounds.
• Aircraft operated by corporations.

For the purposes of implementing this rule, TSA considers “aircraft operated by corporations” as any operation using a paid flight crew, having an operations manual, and requiring recurring flight-crew training. Aircraft that are owned by a corporation but operated by private persons will not be considered for the initial implementation phase of this program. Scheduled and charter operations in aircraft not otherwise under a TSA security program, will not be considered for the initial phase of this program.

NBAA has developed a fact sheet on the interim final rule on access to DCA. The fact sheet outlines the requirements necessary for aircraft operators seeking to operate into or out of DCA. NBAA will update this fact sheet as the TSA releases additional guidance.

Download the NBAA fact sheet (202 KB, PDF)

For more information about GA waivers, visit the TSA’s website.

Request Access

Operators looking to participate in the DASSP must apply through the TSA.
Learn more about the DASSP application process.

Operating Procedures

Once approved to fly into DCA, operators must follow strict procedural guidelines.
View the DCA operating procedures.

Gateway Airports

Flights must be screened at and depart from a designated gateway airport as the last point of departure prior to arriving at DCA. Consult the most recently-updated list of authorized airports for more information.

Approved DASSP Gateway Locations (PDF) – Updated Feb. 2, 2024

Armed Security Officer (ASO) Program

Security procedures require that an armed security officer (ASO) be onboard each aircraft authorized under the DASSP to fly into and out of DCA.
Learn more about the ASO requirement.