What is the role of the Secretary of Homeland Security in flight training applications?

The role of the Secretary of Homeland Security in flight training applications primarily revolves around the security implications of training non-U.S. citizens. This includes ensuring that individuals who are not U.S. citizens undergo the appropriate checks and clearances before they are allowed to participate in flight training programs. This process is part of a broader effort to uphold national security by assessing potential risks associated with allowing non-citizens to engage in aviation activities.

While other roles related to aviation safety and management are crucial, they typically fall under different jurisdictions, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for flying lesson plans and safety inspections or the Federal Aviation Administration or state agencies for aircraft registrations. Therefore, the focus for the Secretary of Homeland Security in this context is specifically on the vetting process associated with non-U.S. citizen applicants.