Trump Calls for Privatization of Airport Security

President Trump proposed privatizing airport security, cutting TSA's budget by $52 million. Smaller airports are to use private screeners, as some have shown cost savings over federal operations. The Biden administration increased TSA employees in response to record-high air travel in 2024.

In a move set to reshape airport security across the nation, President Donald Trump announced a proposal aimed at privatizing functions currently carried out by the Transportation Security Administration. This federal agency was initially established in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks to enhance national security.

The White House's budget suggests a $52 million cut from the TSA expenditure as part of this plan, requiring smaller airports to opt for private screeners. It's reported that airports already participating in similar programs have managed to reduce screening costs compared to federal efforts.

This development follows significant disruptions at major U.S. airports due to TSA security officers not receiving pay amidst a budget impasse. The administration under President Biden had expanded TSA's workforce, correlating with the recent surge in air travel, marking a 5% rise with 904 million passengers screened in 2024.

(With inputs from agencies.)