Tsa Agents: Are Small Airports Under Surveillance?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that has authority over the security of transportation systems within and connecting to the United States. It was created in response to the September 11 attacks to improve airport security procedures and consolidate air travel security under a combined federal law enforcement and regulatory agency.

The TSA is responsible for screening passengers and baggage at more than 450 U.S. airports, employing screening officers, explosives detection dog handlers, and bomb technicians in airports, and armed Federal Air Marshals and Federal Flight Deck Officers on aircraft.

The TSA has screening processes and regulations related to passengers and checked and carry-on luggage, including identification verification, pat-downs, full-body scanners, and explosives screening.

The TSA's primary mission is airport security and the prevention of aircraft hijacking. It works closely with intelligence and law enforcement communities to share information and adjust its processes and procedures to meet evolving threats and achieve the highest levels of transportation security.

While the TSA has authority over the security of transportation systems, some airports contract with private security companies to perform screening tasks. These companies operate under the supervision of the federal security director, who is a federal employee of the TSA. The private security screeners are held to the same standards as their federally employed counterparts and must complete the same background checks, medical examinations, and training.

Therefore, while the TSA has the authority to monitor small airports, some may be monitored by private security companies contracted by the airport.

What does the TSA check for at airport security?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that has authority over the security of transportation systems within and connecting to the United States. The TSA develops key policies to protect the U.S. transportation system, including highways, railroads, bus networks, mass transit systems, ports, pipelines, and intermodal freight facilities.

The TSA's primary mission is airport security and the prevention of aircraft hijacking. It is responsible for screening passengers and baggage at more than 450 U.S. airports, employing screening officers, explosives detection dog handlers, and bomb technicians in airports, and armed Federal Air Marshals and Federal Flight Deck Officers on aircraft.

The TSA incorporates unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, to accomplish its transportation security mission. It works closely with the intelligence and law enforcement communities to share information.

• Carry-on baggage screening: TSA screens approximately 3.3 million carry-on bags for explosives and other dangerous items daily. Passengers will be asked to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening.
• Food: Food or snacks such as fruit, health bars, and sandwiches can stay inside carry-on bags. There are special instructions for liquids, gels, and aerosols, as well as for baby food, breast milk, and medically necessary items.
• Packing: How and what passengers pack can impact the screening process. Passengers should check for prohibited items and remember to follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
• Checked baggage screening: TSA screens approximately 1.3 million checked bags for explosives and other dangerous items daily. The majority of checked baggage is screened without the need for a physical bag search.
• Pat-down procedures: Pat-downs are used to determine whether prohibited items or other threats to transportation security are concealed on the person. Passengers may be required to undergo a pat-down if the screening technology alarms, as part of unpredictable security measures, for enhanced screening, or as an alternative to other types of screening.
• Advanced imaging technology: TSA uses millimeter wave advanced imaging technology and walk-through metal detectors to screen passengers. This technology safely screens passengers without physical contact for metallic and non-metallic threats, including weapons and explosives, which may be concealed under clothing.

What does the TSA PreCheck look for?

The TSA PreCheck is a membership program that offers dedicated airport security lanes and streamlined screening at a few hundred airports across the U.S. It is an expedited screening program that makes risk assessments about passengers prior to their arrival at an airport checkpoint. It enhances aviation security and provides a better travel experience.

The TSA PreCheck is available for:

• U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents enrolled in TSA PreCheck.
• Members of Global Entry.
• U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who are members of SENTRI.
• U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS.
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including those serving in the National Guard and reserves, as well as government employees from select agencies.
• Cadets and midshipmen of the U.S. Military Academy, Naval Academy, Coast Guard Academy, Air Force Academy, and Merchant Marine Academy.
• Passengers 12 and younger traveling with an eligible passenger.
• Passengers who are selected using existing Secure Flight system requirements while traveling on participating airlines.

TSA PreCheck members do not need to remove their shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, or light jackets. They can also keep their pets in their carrying cases and their CPAP machines outside of their carry-on baggage.

The TSA PreCheck costs $77.95 at Clear enrollment locations, $78 at Idemia enrollment centers, and $85 at Telos enrollment centers. The membership lasts for five years. After the initial application fee, PreCheck renewal costs $70 if completed online.

What are the pros and cons of TSA screening contractors?

The TSA Screening Partnership Program allows private companies to bid on screening jobs at airports under the supervision of the federal security director. Here are some pros and cons of TSA screening contractors:

Pros

• Private screening contractors are often more efficient and aren't subject to government shutdown restrictions.
• Private companies can set their own staffing targets and hire as many screeners as needed.
• Contractors can hire workers to do non-essential jobs, like moving bins or reminding passengers of checkpoint requirements.
• Contractors provide a more flexible workforce and it is easier to fire underperforming workers.

Cons

• Labor unions argue that airport security should be a federal government operation and not turned over to for-profit private companies.
• Contractors can fall through, which can be disruptive.
• There is a risk that private companies will cut corners to save costs.
• Private companies are not immune to data security incidents.
• Private companies are not immune to baggage theft.

How do I report a problem with a screening contractor?

If you have a complaint about a TSA screening contractor, you can submit a complaint via the following methods:

• By phone: Dial (866) 289-9673. Representatives are available 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
• Online: Visit the TSA website to request information, submit a complaint or compliment, report a security issue or civil rights violation, or let them know about a TSA PreCheck issue. You can also request TSA Cares assistance if you have a disability, medical condition, or other special circumstances and require additional assistance during the security screening process.
• By mail: Send your complaint to the Transportation Security Administration, 601 South 12th Street West Building, W3-110S Arlington, VA 20598-6033.
• Via social media: Tweet @AskTSA or send a message to the TSA Facebook page.

What are the key responsibilities of a TSA agent?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that has authority over the security of transportation systems within and connecting to the United States. Here are some of the key responsibilities of a TSA agent:

• Screening passengers, luggage, and cargo: TSA agents are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of travellers by screening passengers, baggage, and cargo at airports and other transportation hubs such as train and bus stations. They check for prohibited and dangerous items, including explosives and contraband.
• Maintaining efficient traffic flow: TSA agents help direct foot traffic in airports to ensure passenger safety and increase efficiency, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Monitoring security measures: TSA agents monitor security measures to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all passengers. They work with airport personnel, security officers, law enforcement agencies, and airline staff to maintain airport security.
• Reporting security threats: TSA agents are trained to recognise suspicious behaviour and report potential security threats to supervisors or law enforcement authorities. They also rely on members of the public to report unattended bags, individuals with threatening items, and other suspicious activities.
• Answering traveller questions: TSA agents often serve as the first point of contact for travellers and are responsible for providing courteous and helpful assistance. They answer questions about security procedures, prohibited items, and airport directions.
• Pat-down searches: In certain situations, TSA agents may perform pat-down searches to resolve alarms or as an alternative to metal detectors or imaging technology. These searches are conducted by agents of the same gender as the passenger.
• Operating imaging equipment: TSA agents operate advanced imaging technology, such as X-ray machines and full-body scanners, to detect potential threats without physical contact.
• Canine units: TSA agents may work with canine units to detect explosives or other hazardous materials.
• Collaborating with other agencies: TSA agents collaborate with local law enforcement, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and other agencies to maintain transportation security. They share intelligence and coordinate responses to security incidents.
• Training and certification: TSA agents undergo extensive training and must maintain their certification through ongoing training and proficiency testing to stay up-to-date with the latest security procedures.
• Customer service: TSA agents are expected to provide excellent customer service by assisting travellers with questions or concerns about the screening process. They must handle challenging or angry passengers professionally and defuse potential conflicts.

Frequently asked questions