The high volume of travelers in the United States passing through airport security after their Fourth of July getaways helped set a new single-day screening record for the Transportation Security Administration.
On Sunday, July 7, TSA officers screened 3,013,413 people at checkpoints nationwide, which surpassed the previous record of 2.99 million set on June 23, 2024, the agency announced Monday.
TSA agents deals rush of holiday travelers at Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, Dec. 21, 2023.
Irfan Khan/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
More people flew on an airplane in a single day in the U.S. on Sunday than on any other day in history since TSA was founded in November 2001.
Passengers arrive at security gates of La Guardia airport during Memorial weekend in the Queens borough of New York City, May 24, 2024.
Charly Triballeau/AFP via Getty Images
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas hailed the agency’s work as “an extraordinary achievement” in a congratulatory message on Monday.
Passengers wait in the Transportation Security Administration screening line at Orlando International Airport in Orlando, FL, Dec. 22, 2023.
Paul Hennesy/Anadolu via Getty Images
“TSA fully, unerringly, and efficiently checked 35 passengers every second, along with all their luggage and carry-on baggage, while demonstrating unwavering professionalism and respect for travelers during the intensely busy holiday weekend,” he said. “Congratulations to the entire TSA workforce and Administrator David Pekoske.”
Travelers wait in the line to check in for flights at Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, Nov. 22, 2023.
Mario Tama/Getty Images
As air travel continues to skyrocket at “record-breaking” rates, which Mayorkas said is “expected to continue in the months ahead,” he urged lawmakers to consider the compensation of its agents.
Travelers go through a security screening at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta, GA, June 28, 2024.
Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
“… It is imperative that Congress ensure pay fairness for TSA permanently,” he said. “It is the smart thing to do for everyone who depends on TSA to keep our skies and our country safe, and it is the right thing to do for these great public servants.”
Editor’s Picks
He added that “for decades, TSA officers received less pay for their service than their government counterparts did,” citing that last year in partnership with Congress, DHS “secured long-overdue pay fairness” which he said has helped cut TSA workforce attrition in half, as well as increased recruitment rates, along with “improved morale and job satisfaction across the agency.”
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently made headlines after breaking a single-day record by screening over 3 million travelers at airport security checkpoints. This milestone comes as travel numbers continue to rise following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the increasing availability of vaccines.
The TSA, which is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of air travel in the United States, has been working tirelessly to accommodate the surge in passenger numbers. The agency has implemented various measures to streamline the screening process and minimize wait times, such as deploying additional staff, utilizing advanced technology, and expanding PreCheck lanes.
Despite the record-breaking numbers, TSA officials have assured the public that they are fully prepared to handle the increased volume of travelers. In a statement, TSA Administrator David Pekoske emphasized the agency’s commitment to maintaining high levels of security while also providing a smooth and efficient screening experience for passengers.
The record-breaking day serves as a testament to the resilience of the aviation industry and the determination of travelers to resume normalcy in the wake of the pandemic. It also highlights the importance of adhering to TSA guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and secure travel experience for all passengers.
As air travel continues to rebound, it is crucial for travelers to stay informed about any changes or updates to TSA procedures. This includes being aware of current security measures, packing guidelines, and any COVID-19 protocols that may be in place at airports.
In conclusion, the TSA’s achievement of screening over 3 million travelers in a single day is a significant milestone that underscores the agency’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of air travel. As passenger numbers continue to rise, it is essential for both travelers and TSA personnel to work together to maintain a smooth and efficient screening process. By staying informed and following TSA guidelines, passengers can help contribute to a positive and secure travel experience for all.
