TSA Reminds Passengers to Remain Calm and Respectful at Security Checkpoints
Violations of TSA requirements may result in criminal charges, civil penalties
As America continues to recover from the pandemic and vaccination rates rise, the Transportation Security Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are excited to welcome the traveling public back to the nation’s transportation systems. The federal face mask mandate remains in effect on buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States, and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations.
Unfortunately, rising rates of unruly passengers, as reported by the FAA, are troubling as TSA reports similar incidents at checkpoints across the country. These incidents needlessly interrupt travel, delaying flights and other transportation operations across the country. TSA, in coordination with our air carrier and airport management partners, as well as the FAA, will not tolerate such actions, and may pursue criminal charges and a civil penalty up to the maximum allowable by law. Transportation Security Officers (TSO) and aviation employees across the system work to keep the traveling public safe. TSA is urging travelers to be patient as they work to ensure a secure travel experience for all who pass through our nation’s checkpoints.
“Passengers do not arrive at an airport or board a plane with the intent of becoming unruly or violent; however, what is an exciting return to travel for some may be a more difficult experience for others, which can lead to unexpected, and unacceptable, behaviors,” said Darby LaJoye, TSA Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Administrator. “We appreciate our continued partnership and coordination with the FAA and stand together in a unified position of zero-tolerance with respect to attacks against our employees.”
Two separate incidents this month have triggered referrals to law enforcement for passengers in Louisville, KY and Denver. In Louisville, a passenger allegedly assaulted two TSOs while attempting to breach the exit lane and is facing state criminal charges for criminal trespass, fleeing and evading police, misdemeanor assault, and resisting arrest. The Denver incident involved a passenger allegedly biting two TSOs and remains under investigation. Both passengers also face a potential civil penalty of up to $13,910 for each violation of TSA security requirements.
TSA also announced steps to deter assaults against officers and flight crew, including commencing flight crew self-defense training led by the Federal Air Marshals, beginning July 2021. The program was paused due to COVID-19 restrictions.