TSA ready to provide unmatched security, efficiency for World Cup visitors at LAX

LOS ANGELES - As the world's largest soccer tournament gets ready to kick off, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are proud to welcome fans, athletes, and visitors from around the globe for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. President Donald J. Trump and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin are committed to ensuring every match-including the highly anticipated USA vs. Paraguay opener at LAX-is a secure experience for all. TSA is deploying advanced technologies, expert personnel, and innovative resources to make travel through LAX safe, efficient, and seamless.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is the biggest and most complex sporting event in history, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With 78 out of 104 matches-including the final four-taking place in 11 U.S. cities over just 39 days, Los Angeles will play a central role in welcoming fans and teams for eight matches throughout the World Cup.

"The FIFA World Cup is set to be one of the largest sporting events ever," said TSA Federal Security Director for LAX Jason Pantages. "We're proud to demonstrate how the Golden Age of Travel is becoming a reality here at LAX. TSA's latest innovations are making airport security more efficient and secure than ever before. Our dedicated team is ready to ensure every traveler's safety as they head to the matches and return home."

World Cup visitors arriving and departing from LAX will experience a championship-level airport experience that combines hospitality and seamlessness with the strongest security innovations available, including:

• Efficient and expedient screening
• TSA PreCheck^® Touchless ID for hands-free identity verification
• Advanced on-person scanners to reduce false alarms and pat-downs
• Computed tomography systems with AI-driven image analysis
• TSA canine teams screening passengers, bags, and cargo

TSA is working closely with federal, state, and local agencies, as well as industry partners, to secure LAX, surface transportation, and game sites, ensuring every fan, family, and athlete enjoys safe, efficient, and seamless travel during their World Cup experience.

"Safety and security are at the core of everything we do at LAX, not just during major global events, but every day," said Cecil Rhambo, Chief of Airport Police, Los Angeles World Airports. "Through extensive planning, training and coordination, we have built a comprehensive security posture that is scalable, flexible and ready to support millions of travelers and visitors. We are especially grateful to the Transportation Security Administration for being a valued partner in this effort and for their unwavering commitment to protecting the traveling public."

TSA is also mobilizing its expert workforce at LAX, including National Deployment Officers, support teams for secure movements of VIPs, and personnel engaging with local stakeholders on transportation-related threats. The Federal Air Marshal Service will deploy specialized ground-based operations teams to support security for venues and transportation hubs, including Preventative Radiological/Nuclear Detection and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System technology and personnel. The agency reminds the public that drones are strictly prohibited around airports, stadiums, and World Cup event sites. Flying drones in prohibited areas will result in confiscation, fines, and possible prosecution.

TSA reminds travelers at LAX to:

• Have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, when entering airport security checkpoints. All passengers 18 and older must present a TSA-accepted form of identification.
• Enroll in TSA PreCheck and opt in to TSA PreCheck Touchless ID for expedited screening and a seamless travel experience during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
• Text 275-872 ("AskTSA") or @AskTSA 24/7 for questions about screening or security measures.
• Contact TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227 for support at the checkpoint for travelers with disabilities or medical conditions.

For more information on traveling to the FIFA World Cup 2026, visit the TSA World Cup Security Playbook on TSA.gov and discover how to enjoy a championship-level experience from gate to goal at LAX.

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