What Does Tsa Do? How The Agency Keeps Travel In The Us Safe

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Any traveler who has flown within the U.S. over the last 20 years knows the Transportation Security Administration is a standard part of the air travel process.

This agency inspects all passengers and their belongings before they board a plane at one of the nation's approximately 440 airports. Last year, TSA security officers screened over 2 million passengers each day, discovering an average of nine firearms.

While some travelers may view passing through the security line as a nuisance, TSA plays a critical role in the safety of traveling throughout the U.S. – and their work expands far beyond airports.

"The TSA’s mission is to protect the nation's transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce," a TSA spokesperson told USA TODAY in a statement. "Every year, TSA screens hundreds of millions of passengers, as well as baggage, and cargo to detect and deter potential threats, such as explosives or weapons, that could be used to hijack or destroy aircraft. TSA is a key layer of defense that mitigates risks, enforces safety protocols, and adapts to emerging threats, making air travel significantly safer for passengers."

Here's everything you need to know about TSA.

TSA was created in Nov. 2001 under the Aviation and Transportation Security Act in response to the 9/11 attacks to strengthen transportation security across the U.S. and prevent future threats. Initially part of the Department of Transportation, TSA joined the Department of Homeland Security in March 2023.

The agency employs around 65,000 employees, from explosive specialists who check for bomb devices and canine handling teams. Approximately 50,000 of those employees are transportation security officers out in the field – aka the ones who screen you at the airport.

In total, TSA makes up a quarter of the Homeland Security Department's workforce.

TSA's mission is to "protect the nation's transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce." Its scope involves more than just aviation, but also mass transit systems, freight and passenger rail, highways, pipelines and ports, according to the TSA website.

Here's a rundown of what the TSA duties are:

• TSA air marshals are like the policemen of our skies, according to the Department of Homeland Security. These folks investigate threats to airports or aircraft.
• TSA officers conduct security screenings for every flier by checking ID documents against watch lists and guiding them and their luggage through the X-ray machine to look for dangerous substances and weapons.
• Explosives Detection Canine Handlers and their dogs undergo rigorous training to detect explosives at airports. They also take care of the dogs 24/7.
• Manage TSA PreCheck to offer expedited screening to pre-approved travelers. Starting in 2013, the program now has over 20 million members.
• Work with industry and government partners to protect the freight rail network.
• Reduce threats in highway transportation through security plans and training, including trucking, infrastructure, school buses and motor coaches.
• Oversee mass transit systems, like train networks, by partnering with operators to implement security measures and safety standards.
• Support the U.S. Coast Guard in securing maritime transportation with a focus on passenger security through training and screening procedures.
• Create security guidelines and training materials for hazardous liquid and natural gas pipeline systems.