About Air Marshals

Most people who are interested in a career in law enforcement are familiar with jobs such as a police officer or investigator. However, for those who are interested in something different, becoming an air marshal may be an option. Air Marshals work undercover to prevent or interfere with criminal acts which may occur onboard an airplane or in an airport.

History

The air marshal program first started in the United States in 1968 after a few international hijackings occurred on airplanes. The program was small and most marshals were used on international flights, which were considered at risk for hijacking. When airports throughout the world begin using metal detectors to screen passengers, the air marshals were not used as much. When the terrorist attacks on the United States occurred on September 11, 2001 the program quickly was expanded. The program is run by the Transportation Security Administration.

Function

The exact number of flights where an air marshal is aboard is not released to the general public for security reasons. Part of why the marshals work undercover is to deter criminal activity from occurring. Marshals observe passengers at the airport before departure and once onboard the aircraft. Their main role is to keep both passengers and crew safe from terrorist activity and other types of criminal behavior.

Requirements

Most marshals have some prior work experience in law enforcement, such as working as a police officer. Marshals who do not have law enforcement experience, but have a degree in criminal justice, may be considered for a position depending on the number of job opening. Applicants cannot be older than thirty-seven when they are hired and must be United States Citizens. All those considered for employment must also complete a physical, a psychological screening and a criminal background check.

Training

The training for air marshals is divided into two 7-week segments. The Transportation Security Administration has two training centers located in New Jersey and New Mexico. Applicants are assigned to one of the centers. The first part of training involves classroom work, including classes in criminal psychology and behavior observation. The second seven week segment includes classes in self defense and marksmanship. After graduating from the training academy an air marshal is assigned to a field office and will be ready for deployment on various flights.

Warning

Work as an air marshal can be stressful. They have to make fast decisions, which can effect the lives of passengers and crew. As with most law enforcement jobs, being an air marshal can be dangerous. Marshals almost always work alone, therefore they must be always be aware of their surroundings. Marshals may also be deployed on a flight without much notice and spend a large amount of their time flying between various locations.