Aviation Security: Emerging TSA Threats

Active smugglers are an emerging threat to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). They can range from thugs to passengers or even the flight crew and can be hard to spot. The TSA, however, has several measures to keep these smugglers off the plane caught. One method the TSA uses while at the airport is canine dogs trained to sniff out specific materials such as bombs, drugs, or distinct smells. Another technique the TSA uses is to include trained officers in behavioral detection and TSA pre-check to ensure nothing fishy is happening and the passenger is who they say they are. They also use advanced technology that scans the passengers' bags for any weapons or prohibited items that present any threat. These are some ways TSA ensures that nothing illegal can be smuggled and stopped to prevent further transactions. These methods are very effective in stopping smugglers from getting anything onto the plane and getting themselves arrested. One way the TSA could add extra security would be ensuring that all passengers aboard the flight are checked, including the flight crew, to ensure nothing is getting aboard. According to Schlappig (2022), "pilots and flight attendants don't have to go through security at airports," further explaining the lack of security here. This can be accomplished by making the employees undergo a similar process each day, such as scans and security checks, to further ensure the flight's and passengers' well-being.

References

Schlappig, B. (2022, November 18). TSA known Crewmember program: Security risk?. One Mile at a Time. https://onemileatatime.com/insights/tsa-known-crewmember/