Central to travelers’ concerns is the use of the 9/11 Passenger Security Fee, a charge added to every airline ticket that was originally intended to fund TSA operations and airport security enhancements. Since 2014, however, approximately $1.5 billion per year has been diverted from the transportation security fund to other federal spending, leaving fewer resources for checkpoint technology and modernization.
With major global events on the horizon – including America 250, the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games – the survey suggests that the traveling public wants Congress to act quickly and redirect these funds back to security and infrastructure.
“Americans want the United States to lead the world in travel efficiency, not lag behind it, and they’re telling Congress exactly how to get there: put the 9/11 Passenger Security Fee back where it belongs,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of U.S. Travel. “Stealing 9/11 security dollars is shameful. Allocating the fee to proven technology would speed screening, strengthen security and create a more seamless and secure airport experience. It’s a bipartisan fix waiting to happen.”
Travelers want a more modern airport experience
The poll shows that most Americans still view airport screening as too much of a hassle, with many expressing concern that U.S. systems are outdated compared with those in other countries. Two-thirds of respondents say they are worried about the state of U.S. air traffic control, underlining wider anxieties about capacity, reliability and safety.
Large majorities also support “common sense” checkpoint changes that align with newer screening technologies and procedures already implemented or under consideration. According to the survey:
- 80% support keeping shoes on
- 73% support leaving laptops in bags
- 86% support allowing larger amounts of liquids
These figures point to strong public backing for policies that can simplify the security process without compromising safety, provided the underlying technology is robust.
Strong support for biometric technology
The research also finds broad approval for biometric tools in travel, particularly given their speed and accuracy. With facial biometrics now able to process passengers in just a few seconds and with an accuracy rate above 98%, travelers see clear benefits in terms of convenience and efficiency.
The poll reports that:
- 81% of Americans back TSA’s use of biometrics
- 83% support CBP’s use of the technology
Support increases further when privacy safeguards are clearly explained, suggesting that transparent policies and communication are essential for ongoing adoption.
For airlines, airports and destination marketers, the data underscores an opportunity to align with traveler expectations by integrating biometrics and other seamless-travel solutions into the broader customer journey.
“Put the fee back where it belongs”
Perhaps the clearest message from the survey is around funding.
- 89% say every dollar of the 9/11 Passenger Security Fee should be used to fund modern security technology
- Six in ten worry the U.S. is falling behind other countries in travel efficiency
- More than three-quarters believe TSA officers and air traffic controllers should be paid even during a government shutdown
With significant global events approaching and international visitor flows expected to rise, reinvesting the fee in security and operations is seen by respondents as the fastest path to improvement. For the travel industry, this could translate into shorter queues, more predictable processing times and a better overall experience — all critical factors in destination competitiveness.
For travel trade professionals, the poll’s findings send a clear signal: U.S. travelers are ready for a more seamless, tech-enabled airport experience and want existing funding tools used as intended to get there. The sector’s stakeholders – from airlines and airports to DMOs and inbound operators – have a strong argument to support policy changes that restore the 9/11 Passenger Security Fee to TSA and accelerate modernization of America’s travel infrastructure.
Tags: Geoff Freeman, U.S. Travel Ipsos survey TSA
