JORDAN: AIR MARSHALS PROGRAM, ACTION REQUEST

UNCLAS AMMAN 005994

SIPDIS

SENSITIVE

ROME FOR CASLO

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: EAIR PTER JO
SUBJECT: JORDAN: AIR MARSHALS PROGRAM, ACTION REQUEST

REF: STATE 78755

SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED.


1. Action Request: Post received via a diplomatic note from
the Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs the following
letter regarding new U.S. procedures pertaining to foreign
air marshals programs. The note and letter formally request
U.S. government permission to allow Royal Jordanian Airlines
(RJ) to operate flights to the United States with armed law
enforcement officers on board. We understand from the
Jordanian Civil Aviation Authority(CAA) that RJ and CAA have
separately discussed such procedures with Civil Aviation
Security Liaison Officer (CASLO) in Rome. Please advise on
next steps.


2. Begin text of letter.

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has used air marshals to
provide extra security aboard all Royal Jordanian (RJ)
flights for a number of years (since 1971). Therefore, Air
Marshal policies and procedures pertaining to unlawful
interference and security of passengers, crew and the
aircraft on international routes are well established by the
Jordan Civil Aviation Authority who had delegated this role
to the Jordan Armed forces/Special Aviation Security and
protection unit.

We strongly believe and based on our experience for over 30
years that our Air Marshal program is well organized and no
violations were reported by any officials at International
Airports on this program including USG agencies and TSA.

Due to the new regulatory requirements for an air marshal
program set by the USG after September 11, we would like to
inform you that it is the intention of the Government of
Jordan to use armed air marshals and we certify that our
armed air marshals are duly trained and authorized law
enforcement officers.

The Government of Jordan kindly request the USG permission
for our National Carrier (RJ) to operate direct flights into
the United States with armed law Enforcement Officers (LEO)
onboard.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
End text.
GNEHM