New Report Aims for Easier and Safer Travel
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A group of travel industry and security experts unveiled a new plan in late March featuring several recommendations designed to make travel both easier and safer.
Titled “A Better Way: Building a World Class System for Aviation Security,” the report is the most significant review of the Transportation Security Administration since its creation after the September 11, 2001 attacks. A panel culled together by the U.S. Travel Association worked for a year on the analysis and was headed by former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, among others, and included former top DHS and TSA officials, representatives from the airlines, airports and various businesses dependent on an efficient air travel system.
A 2010 survey by Consensus Research revealed that travelers are avoiding two to three trips a year due to the increasing difficulties created by the security screening process. According to the association, the trips avoided are costing an estimated $85 billion and 900,000 jobs to the American economy.
In seeking greater governmental and checkpoint efficiency, the panel’s top recommendations were to create a voluntary “trusted traveler program” that allows a refocusing on highest risk passengers. The second is a limitation on checked bag fees to encourage fewer carry-on bags. While both would certainly see some popular support, it’s not yet known if the report will actually be taken up by Congress.
Other recommendations include improving the preparation of travelers through better industry and TSA education and communication; giving the TSA authority over the entire checkpoint area; Congressional funding for better checkpoint technology; and a revamping of TSA security programs.
According to the 2010 survey, a large majority of Americans described the current checkpoint system as "inconsistent," "stressful" and "embarrassing."
