Heightened Vigilance Urged for Motorcoach Operators Ahead of Summer Travel Season
An increase in summer travel means remaining vigilant for security threats
As the nation heads into the busy Memorial Day weekend and summer travel season, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a Security Awareness Message (SAM) urging surface transportation operators—including motorcoach companies—to remain vigilant against potential security threats, particularly at high-density public areas and large gatherings.
Although there is no specific or credible threat to surface transportation at this time, TSA highlights the increased risk posed by homegrown violent extremists (HVEs) and lone offenders who may target soft targets such as festivals, concerts, and transit hubs. Recent global incidents have underscored the use of vehicle-ramming tactics, making proactive planning and deterrence more critical than ever.
Key Recommendations for Motorcoach Operators
TSA is calling on motorcoach companies to take several important steps to enhance security readiness during this high-travel period:
- Restrict Vehicle Access to Crowded Areas: Review and reinforce procedures for controlling vehicular access to areas where passengers board or gather, especially around high-traffic events or terminals.
- Assess Vulnerabilities: Conduct security reviews of routes, pickup/drop-off locations, and staging areas to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
- Secure Company Vehicles: Implement and review policies to prevent unauthorized access to company buses and support vehicles. Temporary or permanent vehicle barriers should be considered in vulnerable locations.
- Enhance Reporting Protocols: Ensure that all staff are familiar with procedures for reporting suspicious behavior and have up-to-date contact information for internal security teams, local law enforcement, and FBI field offices.
- Employee Awareness: Remind drivers and staff to stay alert to unusual behavior, particularly inquiries about schedules, passenger counts, or access procedures.
Resources for Preparedness
Motorcoach operators are encouraged to consult several key resources provided by TSA and the Department of Homeland Security to enhance training and planning:
- Mass Gatherings: Security of Soft Targets and Crowded Places (FEMA)
- Vehicle Incident Prevention and Mitigation Security Guide (CISA)
- Vehicle Ramming Predictive Analysis (FHWA)
- First Responder’s Toolbox: Large Public Gatherings Attractive Targets for Violent Extremists (JCAT)
For those seeking real-time threat information and collaboration, TSA’s Surface Information Sharing Cell (SISC) offers a valuable platform focused on sharing data related to physical and cyber threats to surface transportation systems. Operators can request more information by contacting: [email protected].
Industry Partnership Critical to Safety
Motorcoach operators are vital in maintaining safe, efficient travel across the country, especially during peak seasons. TSA’s outreach serves as a reminder that security is a shared responsibility. The proactive efforts of motorcoach companies, from frontline staff to operations planners, are essential in protecting passengers and maintaining public confidence in group travel.
As Americans hit the road this summer, preparation, awareness, and collaboration remain the best defenses against emerging threats to the surface transportation network.
