The U.S. Travel Association is voicing strong opposition to a proposed amendment in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorisation bill that would limit the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) ability to use biometric technology for passenger screening.
The amendment aims to curb the TSA’s deployment of biometrics and facial matching technology, which have been used to enhance the speed and safety of airport security checks nationwide. Critics from within the travel industry, however, argue that such restrictions would lead to longer lines, decreased safety, and the squandering of millions in taxpayer dollars previously invested in this cutting-edge screening technology.
The U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman criticized the amendment.
The amendment, if passed, would severely limit or outright ban the use of automated facial matching technology at TSA checkpoints and would affect TSA PreCheck’s Touchless ID initiatives with airlines such as Delta and United.
Industry officials and stakeholders are now mobilising to counter the proposed legislative changes, emphasising the importance of innovation in maintaining the efficiency and security of U.S. air travel.
