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    Transportation Security Administration
    Government / Public Safety

    Transportation Security Administration

    United States flagUnited States

    "Securing the nation's transportation systems"

    Founded November 19, 2001 Pentagon City, Arlington, Virginia
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    About

    The Transportation Security Administration emerged on November 19, 2001, as a direct response to the September 11 attacks. Congress passed the Aviation and Transportation Security Act that same month to create a federal body capable of managing security across all modes of travel. Before this shift, airlines hired private contractors to screen passengers, but the new agency brought those duties under one unified government umbrella.

    Headquartered in Pentagon City, Arlington, Virginia, the TSA operates within the Department of Homeland Security. Its workforce includes tens of thousands of Transportation Security Officers who inspect travelers and cargo at more than 450 airports. The agency also oversees safety protocols for rail, mass transit, pipelines, and maritime sectors, ensuring consistent standards from coast to coast.

    While it does not sell products, the TSA funds its operations through congressional appropriations and user fees collected from programs like TSA PreCheck. This expedited screening service allows eligible travelers to keep shoes and light jackets on during the process. The agency also runs TSA Cares, a helpline designed to assist passengers with disabilities or medical conditions before they arrive at the checkpoint.

    Products & Sub-brands

    TSA PreCheckSecure FlightTSA CaresStandard Passenger ScreeningCargo Inspection

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who owns the Transportation Security Administration?
    The TSA is owned and operated by the United States federal government as part of the Department of Homeland Security, not by any private corporation or individual owner.
    Who is the CEO of the TSA?
    The TSA does not have a CEO; it is led by an Administrator who is appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate.
    How much does TSA PreCheck cost and is it worth it?
    TSA PreCheck costs $85 for a five-year membership, offering expedited screening that allows travelers to keep shoes and laptops in bags, which many frequent flyers find valuable for saving time.
    Is the TSA still in business and operating normally?
    Yes, the TSA remains fully operational across all major U.S. transportation hubs, though it occasionally implements temporary changes to screening procedures due to staffing shortages or policy updates.
    What is the difference between TSA and private security?
    Unlike private security companies that may guard specific facilities, the TSA is the only federal agency authorized to conduct mandatory passenger and baggage screening for commercial flights in the United States.

    Keywords

    TSAairport securityscreeninghomeland securitytravel tipsprecheckaviation safetytransportation security

    Sources

    TSA Official SiteWikipediaUSA.govThe Hill - TSA RulesThe Guardian - Checkpoint Changes

    Company Info

    Founded
    November 19, 2001
    Headquarters
    Pentagon City, Arlington, Virginia
    Industry
    Government / Public Safety
    Parent Company
    Department of Homeland Security
    Parent Organization
    Department of Homeland Security
    Airports Covered
    Over 450
    PreCheck Cost
    $85 for 5 years
    Leadership Title
    Administrator

    Official Website

    www.tsa.gov/

    Links

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