Yesterday, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that the group broke its own record. On Sunday, June 23, the authority screened 2.99 million people, the most screened on a single day ever. In fact, seven of the 10 busiest days on record happened in just the last month. What’s more, the TSA says this isn’t the end of record-breaking travel days.
Administrator David Pekoske says this summer will be the most active yet. The TSA expects to screen over 32 million passengers from June 27 to July 8. This is a 5.4% increase over the same period in 2023. The busiest day will likely be Friday, June 28, with over three million passengers expected to enter screening.
The TSA aims to keep wait times under 10 minutes for PreCheck lanes and under 30 minutes for standard lanes. Thanks to a new budget from Congress, which enabled the group to create a new compensation plan, the TSA says it’s prepared with less attrition and better recruiting.
Here are a few travel tips from the TSA to keep screening smooth and efficient:
Have your ID and boarding pass ready: All passengers must have their ID and boarding pass ready to display to officials.
Be ready to take off your shoes: Unless you’re under age 12, over age 75, or have TSA PreCheck, accept that you will need to remove your shoes to pass security screening.
Pack smart: Start packing with a completely empty bag to avoid prohibited items. Keep electronics and liquids easily accessible. Don’t attempt to carry on liquids over 3.4 ounces.
Arrive early: Get to the airport two hours before your boarding time to allow for parking, check-in, and security screening.
Traveling with kids: Airlines may request proof of age documentation during check-in for children 12 and under traveling unaccompanied. Proof of age documentation must also be provided for children two and under who are planning to sit on an adult passenger’s lap. A birth certificate is an acceptable proof of age.
If you need assistance: There are several ways to request assistance prior to travel. Visit the TSA’s contact page for details.
Tag your luggage accurately: This includes labeling your luggage with your name and contact info inside bags in case exterior tags fall off.
TSA PreCheck: If you have TSA PreCheck, ensure your Known Traveler Number is in your reservation. PreCheck allows for quicker screening without removing shoes, belts, or laptops. If you aren’t enrolled in PreCheck, you can join for a relatively small fee that covers several years. Find details on the TSA PreCheck page.
Respect all aviation workers. Aggressive behavior can cause delays and lead to serious penalties, including arrest.
