In the decade since its inception, the Transportation Security Administration’s record has been abysmal. Not only do local TSA agents fail to identify 20 out of 22 dangerous items that pass through the scanners (including bombs, guns and knives), but elsewhere in the country there are reports of TSA agents getting tipped off when a “covert” internal readiness test is taking place.
In fact, one bit of security procedure that has made flying safer doesn’t even take place within the airport. After September 11, 2001, airlines made hijacking a commercial flight virtually impossible by installing a re-enforced cockpit. What a novel concept–make the airlines responsible for their own security.
So what does the TSA accomplish? All that delayed travel, naked body scans, and excessive frisking must have served some purpose. The answer is what some call “security theater,” countermeasures intended to provide the feeling of improved security while accomplishing little or nothing in the way of actual protection.
But while security theater may discourage some terrorists and would-be hijackers, what’s to discourage criminal actions perpetrated by the TSA? Until recently, the TSA denied that any of their agents were guilty of wrongdoing. That was before two TSA agents were charged with stealing $40k from checked luggage.
Therein lies the paradox inherent in the TSA’s mission. Their approach to protecting passengers and their property is grounded in a complete lack of respect for passengers and their property. In fact, the security line is now the most vulnerable place in the airport for incidences of theft and attack. Yet somehow, we have been spared the consequences of the supposed imminent threat to which the TSA owes its entire existence.
Ann Davis, the TSA spokesperson, cites three reasons we are safer today:
“…The possible presence of armed federal air marshals, hardened cockpit doors, flight crews trained in self-defense and a more vigilant traveling public who have demonstrated a willingness to intervene.”
It’s interesting to note that none of these additional security “layers” have anything to do with the Transportation Security Administration or checkpoints or naked body scanners.
Council Member David Greenfield, of Brooklyn, has proposed a bill to ban the Transportation Security Administration’s use of body scanners within New York City limits. The bill could be a step in the right direction, protecting New Yorkers’ civil rights while at the same time making air travel more safe.
During the last State of the Union Address, President Obama joked that one advantage to high speed rail is passengers could avoid “pat-downs.” Unless legislation for airport security has changed, New Yorkers shouldn’t count on it. Today it’s the airports; tomorrow it’s the 6 train.
New York City Liberty Action Group 
Screw the TSA. Janet Napolitano and the DHS are inhuman and disgusting!
Pingback: TSA: Complaining = Security Threat | New York City Liberty Action Group