What must a Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) do upon arriving at the gate?

Upon arriving at the gate, it is essential for a Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) to identify themselves. This action is foundational for establishing authority and purpose, as it ensures that security personnel and other relevant authorities recognize the LEO's official status and reason for being present at the location. Identification helps in facilitating communication and cooperation, especially in situations that may involve security protocols or sensitive operations.

While requesting immediate access to the aircraft or waiting for clearance from the pilot may seem relevant in certain scenarios, the initial step must always be to identify oneself. Providing identification credentials after boarding is a later step in securing access and may not be appropriate in all contexts. Thus, proper identification upon arrival is crucial for the smooth execution of duties and maintaining security protocols at the gate.