Assessing the impact of airspace security measures during several 2009 events

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plays a pivotal role in maintaining security within the National Airspace System (NAS). In particular, high profile events require special airspace security measures to ensure the safety and security of the participants and the venues hosting these events. These events are often designated as National Security Special Events (NSSEs). This paper discusses Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) and other air domain security measures typically employed during NSSEs. Examined are two 2009 NSSEs: the January Presidential Inauguration and the September United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting. Also examined are some of the airspace security incidents that occurred during these events, identified as Tracks of Interest (TOIs). A comparison is also made with incidents measured during several previous NSSEs: the 2007 and 2008 UNGA meetings and the Democratic and Republican National Conventions held during 2008.