Americans Dissatisfied with Travel Security Experience; Demand 9/11 Passenger Security Fee Put Back Where It Belongs

A new U.S. Travel-Ipsos poll shows Americans fear the United States is falling behind other countries in delivering a modern, efficient travel experience. Congress can make immediate progress by returning billions of dollars from the 9/11 Passenger Security Fee - a charge added to every airline ticket that is supposed to fund TSA operations and airport security improvements but is instead largely diverted elsewhere - to update security technology and speed up screening. Since 2014, Congress has raided about $1.5 billion annually from the transportation security fund and diverted the dollars to pet projects. With major global events approaching - America 250, the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games - the public is asking for renewed focus from Congress.

"Americans want the United States to lead the world in travel efficiency, not lag behind it, and they're telling Congress exactly how to get there: put the 9/11 Security Fee back where it belongs," said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of U.S. Travel. "Stealing 9/11 security dollars is shameful. Allocating the fee to proven technology would speed screening, strengthen security and create a more seamless and secure airport experience. It's a bipartisan fix waiting to happen."

Key Findings: Americans want modernization and they want Congress to use the tools already available.

Travelers Want a Modern Airport Experience

• Most Americans still view airport screening as too much of a hassle.
• Two-thirds are concerned about the state of U.S. air traffic control.
• Large majorities support common sense security checkpoint updates the administration has implemented and continues to consider:
  • 80% support keeping shoes on
  • 73% support leaving laptops in bags
  • 86% support allowing larger amounts of liquids

Biometric Technology Has Strong, Broad Support

With facial biometrics that take only a few seconds and an accuracy rate of more than 98%.

• 81% of Americans back TSA's use of biometrics; 83% support CBP's use of the technology.
• Support grows when privacy safeguards are explicit.

Use the 9/11 Security Fee as Intended and Pay Essential Travel Workers

• 89% say every dollar should fund modern security technology.
• With six in ten worried the U.S. is falling behind, reinvesting the fee is the fastest path to improvement.
• More than three-quarters of respondents believe TSA officers and air traffic controllers should be paid even during a government shutdown.

U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing the $1.3 trillion travel industry, an essential contributor to our nation's economy and success. U.S. Travel produces programs and insights and advocates for policies to increase travel to and within the United States. Visit ustravel.org for more information.