WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Transportation Security Administration said it is prepared to screen more than 18 million passengers and airline crew members during the Memorial Day holiday travel period marking the unofficial start of the summer travel season.
TSA officials said approximately 18.3 million travelers are expected to pass through airport security checkpoints nationwide between Thursday, May 21, and Wednesday, May 27.
“Thanks to swift action of President Trump and Secretary Mullin to pay frontline TSA officers and put an end to the 76-day Democrat shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, TSA can now anticipate a smooth screening experience for America’s air travelers this Memorial Day and summer travel season,” said TSA Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Administrator Ha McNeill. “Our TSA teams are completely staffed, so passengers should experience minimal wait times and have an enjoyable trip through our airports and on to their travel destinations.”
The agency said it is also honoring military service members and fallen heroes during Memorial Day weekend.
“As the summer travel season begins this Memorial Day, TSA will also remember those who have given their lives to defend the freedoms we enjoy as Americans,” the agency said in a statement.
TSA officials also noted preparations are underway for major international events expected to increase travel demand this summer, including the FIFA World Cup beginning June 11 in North America and celebrations tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The World Cup is expected to draw approximately 6 million international visitors, many of whom will travel through U.S. airports.
The agency reminded travelers that adults 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, at airport security checkpoints.
Passengers without acceptable identification may be able to complete an identity verification process through TSA ConfirmID for a $45 fee.
TSA also encouraged travelers to enroll in TSA PreCheck, which offers expedited security screening at participating airports. During May, travelers age 30 and younger can receive discounted five-year TSA PreCheck memberships through participating enrollment providers.
Officials urged travelers to pack carefully and review TSA rules before arriving at airports to help reduce delays at checkpoints.
