Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Aviation Security Case Analysis
I. Summary
Since September 11, 2001, airport security has undergone some major changes. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) were formed and airport security was transitioned from private contractors to government run security through TSA. Since that time, there has been great debate on
II. Problem
The problem is whether to continue to use a government-operated system of administering airport security, or return to privately owned and operated contracted airport security organizations.
III. Significance of the Problem
The significance of the problem is, since September 11, 2001 a concentrated effort has been put on aviation security. It is clear that the most effective security option must be in place. However, the security option must also be cost effective to the American taxpayer as well.
IV. Development of Alternative Actions
Alternative Action 1. Alternative action one is to continue to use the current government-operated system of administering airport security. Advantages. One of the advantages to remaining with the government-operated system of administering airport security is that a well trained work force is already in place. Since its creation, “TSA has developed a highly-trained Federal workforce that has safely screened approximately 7 billion passengers”. (Pistole, 2012, pg. 3) Another advantage to remaining with the current system is the established communication channels with Federal intelligence agencies and local law enforcement. This interconnectivity allows for a sound “risk-based, intelligence-driven” security model which allows expedient adaptations to meet developing threats. (Pistole, 2012, pg. 3) Disadvantages. The TSA has become overinflated government bureaucracy that is costing the tax payers large amounts of money. Since its creation, the TSA’s
References: Pistole J. (2012). Letter to the chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation Security Committee on Homeland Security, 3, Retrieved from http://www.tsa.gov/sites/default /files/assets/pdf/tsa-121108-018_rogers.pdf Mica J. (2011). Pro & Con: Should airport screening be conducted by private security? YES: Sixteen airports use a private model, with success and lower costs. Article for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Retrieved from http://www.ajc.com/news/news /opinion /pro-con-should-airport-screening-be-conducted-by-p/nQqsP/ Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, (2011). TSA Ignores More Cost-Effective Screening Model. Retrieved from http://www.aaae.org/?e=showFile&l=XQVIPZ Gage J. (2011). Pro & Con: Should airport screening be conducted by private security? NO: We don’t contract out the FBI and Secret Service. Why screening? Article for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Retrieved from http://www.ajc.com/news/news /opinion /pro-con-should-airport-screening-be-conducted-by-p/nQqsP/