What is the primary role of Federal Air Marshals (FAMs) on flights?

The primary role of Federal Air Marshals (FAMs) on flights is to prevent and respond to acts of violence. FAMs are specially trained law enforcement officers who are deployed on commercial flights to ensure the safety and security of passengers and crew members. Their main objective is to deter potential threats and to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of an incident.

Their presence acts as a significant deterrent against criminal activity and acts of terrorism on flights. They are equipped to handle violent situations, utilizing various tactics and tools to manage threats and protect the aircraft, its occupants, and overall aviation security. This responsibility is critical given the high-profile nature of aviation security, as any breach can have severe implications for public safety.

While monitoring passengers and detaining individuals may be part of the FAMs' broader functions, these tasks fall under the overarching goal of preventing violence. Conducting security checks is typically handled by other airport security personnel rather than by FAMs during flights. Thus, the focus on preventing and responding to acts of violence encapsulates their primary mission in the aviation environment.