Federal Air Marshals have which of the following abilities?

Federal Air Marshals are specially trained law enforcement officers who are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of passengers and crew on commercial flights. Their unique role requires them to possess specific abilities that enhance security measures during air travel.

The ability to access aircraft without crew means that Federal Air Marshals can enter an aircraft in scenarios where it is necessary to assess or intervene without the presence of the flight crew, adding a layer of security. The authorization for armed travel allows them to carry weapons while on duty, which is crucial for their function in a high-risk environment such as an aircraft where they may need to respond to threats immediately. Furthermore, knowledge of armed customers onboard is vital for them to assess risks and recognize potential threats accurately, ensuring they can act appropriately to safeguard everyone on the flight.

In contrast, the other abilities mentioned, such as controlling passenger flow during boarding, providing customer service on board, or issuing boarding passes, do not align with the primary mission or training of Federal Air Marshals. Their focus is security and threat response, rather than customer service or operational logistics typically handled by the airline staff. Therefore, the correct understanding of their capabilities highlights their specialized role in maintaining air safety.