The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said that it agreed with the findings of recent covert testing conducted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) and said it would implement the OIG’s recommendations.
Members of the Office of Inspector General (OIG), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Administrator appeared before the House Committee on Homeland Security last week for a classified briefing on the results of the most recent OIG testing at airport security checkpoints.
“We take the OIG’s findings very seriously and are implementing measures that will improve screening effectiveness at checkpoints,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said. “We are focused on staying ahead of a dynamic threat to aviation with continued investment in the workforce, enhanced procedures, and new technologies.”
TSA said it will pursue technology investments including credential authentication technology, automated screening lanes, and computed tomography. It will also increase investment in training and complement screening capabilities with additional layers including vetting, Federal Air Marshals (FAMs) on flights and the use of canines. TSA also conducts continuous internal testing.
“We will invest in our people, continue to improve our processes, and engage new technology to keep transportation systems secure,” Pekoske said.