Commercial Fixed Wing
Flight Attendant Current
Communication Breakdown
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Security; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
General None Reported / Taken
Company Policy; Procedure
I was told by my Captain we are to expect two FAMs (Federal Air Marshalls) and one LEO on our flight. When boarding commenced; one of them showed his ID and asked me if he could check in with the Captain. After doing so; I asked him if he was aware of 'the other two.' He seemed confused. I told him we were supposed to have 'two FAMs and a LEO. Are you the LEO?' He said yes. I told him we have two FAMs too; but I'm not sure yet what seats they're in. He said OK and sat in seat. As he walked away; my Captain called me into the flight deck and said LEOs aren't supposed to know about the FAMs; but the FAMs are supposed to know about the LEOs. I was dumbfounded and anxious because I thought all armed persons are supposed to know about each other; with the exception of FBI agents; which is not in our manual anywhere; but was told to me when I inquired years ago at recurrent. I asked if ever someone can be armed on our plane and not have to tell us. The trainer answered FBI only. In flight; I looked it up in my manual because I hate not being sure of a rule; and I needed to read it to verify. I found two spots referencing FAM discretion; and to me; it says LEOS ARE supposed to be informed about the FAMs. All armed persons are informed about each other. Is our manual wrong? Am I interpreting it wrong? I informed my Captain what I had found. He said the Company gate agent was the one who told him LEOs aren't supposed to know about FAMs.My thought is; what if the FAM steps in to help us and pulls his gun out and the LEO shoots him. It could totally happen; because there would obviously be a commotion; the LEO thinks he's the only one on board with a gun; it's his job to help.Later that day; I asked a different company gate agent what their policy was. I wanted to verify. She said if the LEO asks if there is anyone else armed; she will answer 'yes; but they are not in your category;' but she will not disclose the seat number(s). If he or she (LEO) does not ask; she (gate agent) does not tell.Unless I'm reading my manual wrong; I think we have a policy discrepancy. Please let me know what's correct so I may comply in the future.
Flight Attendant reported confusion relating to LEO's and FAM's onboard an aircraft and if they should know about each other.