How To Become an Air Marshal in 4 Steps (With FAQS)

If you love to travel and have a strong interest in law enforcement, a career as an air marshal may be a great fit for you. Air marshals have a variety of duties focused on upholding the law and maintaining safety on aircraft to protect passengers and deter crime. Understanding the training and education they pursue can help you start your career journey.

In this article, we explain how to become an air marshal, list their primary duties and answer some FAQs about this career.

How to become an air marshal

Here's how to become an air marshal in a few easy steps:

1. Obtain a bachelor's degree

While you can qualify for air marshal jobs with three years of relevant experience, the government may prefer candidates who have a college degree. They may also accept a combination of education and experience. The experience that the TSA wants to see includes progressively responsible general experience, where candidates demonstrate an ability to analyze problems, plan and organize work and communicate effectively. If you intend to become a supervisor or obtain a higher rank, a bachelor's degree is typically a requirement. Some ideal degrees for aspiring air marshals include:

• Criminal justice

• Law

• Homeland security

• Aviation business administration

Related: 15 Top Criminal Justice Degree Jobs (With Salaries)

2. Obtain experience

The Federal Air Marshal Service typically wants candidates with experience that demonstrates their ability to gather data, analyze problems and identify solutions. They must also have proven written and verbal communication skills.

Aspiring air marshals can obtain experience by applying for internships or entry-level positions. They can also consider joining a local law enforcement agency or the military. Such experience can also help candidates meet the required fitness and marksmanship skills, and military personnel often gain preferential consideration for their experience.

Related: 30 Jobs for Homeland Security Majors

3. Meet the TSA requirements

Candidates for an air marshal position are subject to TSA requirements. The TSA, or Transportation Security Administration, is a government body that oversees security and law enforcement for transportation services, like air travel. The TAS requires air marshal candidates to be between the ages of 21 and 36 at the time of application. Candidates must undergo a drug test and a criminal and credit background check to ensure they have no disqualifying financial delinquencies or criminal convictions.

Candidates must also pass mental and physical health evaluations, a panel interview and an evaluation by a supervisory air marshal. They must also qualify for top-secret security clearance and pass a polygraph exam. Due to the sensitive nature of the position and the potential hazards of the position, the TSA chooses candidates carefully, considering those with law enforcement and military training before other candidates.

Related: Reasons To Become a Federal Law Enforcement Agent (Plus 4 Jobs)

4. Complete air marshal training

After completing the application process, aspiring air marshals complete a 16-week training program. The first part of their training program begins at the Federal Training Center in Artesia, New Mexico, and consists of physical fitness, marksmanship and classroom instruction.

The second phase of their training is conducted at the Federal Air Marshal Service Training Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey, where the aspiring air marshals undergo advanced weapons training. They also learn international law, aircraft safety protocols and defensive techniques. Handling a firearm is a crucial part of the job, and candidates must achieve high scores in marksmanship during training.

Related: 8 Law Enforcement Job Ranks (And How To Gain a Higher Rank)

What does an air marshal do?

Air marshals are specially trained, armed law enforcement officers who work for the TSA and help protect passengers and crews on domestic and international flights. They're responsible for identifying and apprehending dangerous people and preventing criminal activity during flights and in airports.

Some of their primary duties include detecting and defeating hostile acts against aviation, sitting on random flights and monitoring passengers to identify any potential threats and taking action when necessary to protect the passengers and crew.

They work closely with other local and federal law enforcement agencies to maximize security and also assist with security for other transportation methods, such as passenger trains. They may participate in multi-agency task forces and in land-based investigations to fight terrorism. Here are some common skills for air marshals:

• Firearms proficiency

• Law enforcement knowledge

• Physical fitness and stamina

• Analytical and problem-solving skills

• Interpersonal skills

• Strong observation skills

• Ability to identify potentially dangerous situations or people

• Strong moral compass

• Familiarity with airplane layouts and security requirements

Related: Law Enforcement Officer Resume Examples

Frequently asked questions

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about becoming an air marshal:

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