tsa marks over two decades ensuring safe travel post-9/11

In 2010, a bomb plot involving printer cartridges was foiled onboard a flight from Yemen. Consequently, shipments from Yemen were suspended, and printer cartridges were banned from carry-on luggage.

Technological upgrades continued with pre-checks for passengers starting in 2013 at Indianapolis International Airport. These allow smoother security screenings at over 200 US airports. In May 2016, automated screening lanes were introduced in US airports to improve efficiency.

Facial recognition technology began testing in Los Angeles airport in collaboration with LA World Airports in 2018. This aims to identify individuals on no-fly lists using intelligence gathered by security agencies.

On the anniversary of September 11th attacks in 2021, the TSA held a ceremony remembering those affected: “20 Years Protecting the Nation: Remembering Our Past; Securing Our Future.”

Recent investments include $1.3 billion for CT X-ray scanning machines at airport security areas in 2023 and testing hand-held language devices at Philadelphia International Airport in March 2024.

The TSA plays a crucial role not only in aviation but also works with railway systems through visible intermodal prevention and response teams (VIPR). Cargo entering the US is screened by specialist teams with canines trained to detect prohibited items like drugs or explosives.

The agency maintains public engagement through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram where it shares updates on regulations and incidents related to travel safety.

Despite occasional disruptions such as recent viral videos depicting inappropriate behavior during screenings, procedures remain essential for maintaining secure travel environments across global airports.