The state of airline security
— -- Like many Americans, I grudgingly accepted that the events of 9/11 had radically—if not permanently—transformed air travel in this country. I tried to take a longer view than most and philosophically adapted to the creeping security lines, the lists of prohibited carry-on items and the intrusive screening procedures.
Of course, I've always agreed with Benjamin Franklin: "Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety." But while I may have been reluctant to give up liberty, I was willing to give up convenience, all in the name of the greater good.
But after spending six months investigating aviation security for Consumer Reports, it's become clear to me that airline security procedures in 2008 are raising more questions now than when the Transportation Security Administration was formed in November 2001. Our investigation found that even after six years of intense scrutiny, the TSA suffers from what we termed "major security lapses." In many ways, the hype and the hassles are not balanced by effective procedures.
Little wonder that the report, which was published in the February 2008 issue of Consumer Reports and is also available online, is entitled: "Air Security: Why You're Not As Safe As You Think."
Overall, the lack of a large-scale airline security crisis in the years since 9/11 is something to be appreciated. But it's unclear how much of this is due to luck and how much to the TSA's planning and procedures. While no one at Consumer Reports or USA TODAY has any intention of abetting those who may attack our transportation systems, it's equally clear that publicly discussing such issues is a critical component in ensuring that air travel remains safe and secure.
The public record
This investigation stemmed from speaking to dozens of front-line employees at the TSA and the airlines: air marshals, screeners, pilots, and a variety of security officials. But it began by examining the public record, which in recent years has become quite extensive. In fact, there's been a growing litany of concerns about the TSA's performance from numerous government agencies.
A small sampling includes the following:
• In April 2007, the House Committee on Homeland Security's "2007 Annual Report Card" gave the TSA a "C" for Aviation Security and an "F" for Employee Morale.
• In February 2007, the Government Accountability Office found the TSA has made "limited progress in developing and deploying technologies" and faces "management, planning, and funding challenges" in security screening staffing.
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