TravelPulse reports that the Trump Admin is planning some changes to the way the TSA does screening at airports. One of the options being considered is the possible privatization of certain functions of the TSA.
Trump Admin considering involving private sector
As per the TSA’s website, the TSA is considering making changes to the way security is done at airports. They aren’t merely looking to make minor changes but also looking to involve private sector companies by issuing an RFI (Request for Information). As per this notice put out by the TSA, private sector companies have to turn in their submissions by August 1, 2025.
“TSA is constantly looking for innovative private sector solutions to enhance security and improve the passenger experience at TSA checkpoints,” said TSA Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill. “Homeland Security Secretary Noem recently announced TSA’s elimination of the mandate for passengers to remove their shoes. This effort will continue to drive a golden age of travel for future innovations by allowing private sector organizations to submit ideas or solutions that will help make airport screening faster, more secure, and easier on the traveling public.”
Using AI To Enhance Security
The TSA plans to use AI to help with advanced screening and threat detection.
According to the release, the TSA hopes to implement private sector solutions to reduce operating costs and manual labor, “incorporate AI-driven threat detection and remote screening, optimize workforce capabilities through automation or robotics for passenger and baggage screening,” and more.
Detractors of the new RFI could argue that the Administration is seeking to privatize the TSA by replacing TSA security personnel and other airport employees with privately owned robots, automation, or AI that the TSA would then pay a company to provide and maintain.
They could also argue that the use of AI in the security process could put their personal information at risk, as current security checkpoint regulations require the verification of personal identification information.
The Pundit’s Mantra
On one hand, I’m not surprised to see more integration of tech and AI into the field of security, Countries around the world use some form of advanced screening and technology to preempt and fight threats, but critics of the move hold valid arguments voicing concerns about the replace of human government jobs with private sector led automation, in addition voicing concerns how data is collected and managed.
What do you think about this move by the TSA? Tell us in the comments section.
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