Who authorizes entry of foreign nationals into the aircraft?

• A. The 18 AF/CC
• B. The embassy security officer
• C. The SF OIC
• D. The aircraft commander

Answer: (D)

The person in command of the aircraft is the one who controls who may enter, including foreign nationals. The aircraft commander has the final responsibility for the aircraft’s safety and security, so they approve boarding and access after verifying identity, clearance, and any required approvals. Other roles may assist or enforce security, but they do not grant entry onto the aircraft themselves. Embassy security officers handle consular or diplomatic procedures in other contexts, and security forces on the ground enforce rules but defer to the aircraft commander for access decisions. A higher-level commander sets policy and overall direction, not individual boarding actions. Therefore, the aircraft commander is the authority to authorize entry of foreign nationals into the aircraft.