A survey of air travelers conducted by the U.S. Travel Association found that 75 percent believe “there has to be a better way” to conduct air travel security screening.
The study also reports that a majority of those surveyed want Congress to make air travel security a top priority in the new term that begins in January, with 90 percent believing that it is possible to achieve an air travel screening system that is both secure and efficient, and that does not frighten or inconvenience travelers.
“Americans are clamoring for a better way, and it should be a wake-up call for our leaders in Washington,” said Roger Dow, U.S. Travel Association president.
The study also says 80 percent of travelers support a trusted traveler program that would provide alternative screening measures for American citizens who submit to a background check and meet other risk criteria.
Survey respondents say they would also take from two to three more trips per year if the current security measures involved with air travel could be reduced without compromising security. U.S. Travel estimates that those additional trips could add $84.6 billion in travel spending and support 888,000 additional jobs.
“An efficient air travel security screening system that streamlines the process for trusted travelers can strengthen our security and economy,” Dow said.
