Federal Aviation Administration Draft Advisory Circular 150/5360-14A, Access to Airports by Individuals with Disabilities

1.6.18 Sterile Area.
A portion of an airport, specified in the airport security program, in which certain security measures specified in 49 CFR part 1542, Airport Security, are carried out. This area is where aircraft operators and foreign air carriers that have a security program under 49 CFR part 1544, Aircraft Operator Security: Air Carriers and Commercial Operators, or part 1546, Foreign Air Carrier Security, enplane and deplane passengers, and sort and load baggage. Also includes any adjacent areas that are not separated by adequate security measures. (49 CFR part 1540, Civil Aviation Security: General Rules).