TSA Seeks AI and Tech Solutions to Modernize Airport Screening

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is making a major move to modernize airport screening across the United States 🇺🇸, starting July 30, 2025. The agency is calling on private companies to bring forward new solutions, especially those using artificial intelligence and advanced technology, to make airport screening faster, safer, and less stressful for travelers.

TSA’s latest push comes as air travel numbers hit record highs and the need for efficient, secure screening grows. The agency recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) to the private sector, asking for technology-driven ideas that can improve security checkpoints. The deadline for companies to submit their ideas is August 1, 2025. TSA plans to award a 10-year contract worth up to $5.5 billion, replacing the current $3.3 billion contract that ends in 2026.

Homeland Security Secretary Noem announced a big change: passengers will no longer need to remove their shoes at security checkpoints. This signals a shift toward smoother, more comfortable screening for everyone. “We are committed to making travel safer and easier for all passengers,” said TSA Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill.

Key Goals and New Technology

TSA’s main goals with this modernization are clear:

• Make airport screening more effective by using advanced detection tools and data analysis.
• Cut costs and reduce manual work by bringing in automation and robotics.
• Improve the passenger experience by shortening wait times and making the process less stressful.
• Keep up with strict security standards and government rules.
• Use artificial intelligence to spot threats in both carry-on and checked bags, and allow for remote screening and centralized review of images.
• Add biometric identity checks like facial recognition and digital ID systems, connecting with TSA PreCheck for faster processing.
• Ensure all systems use open standards and cloud technology so data can move securely and quickly.

How the New Screening Process Works

Here’s what travelers can expect as these changes roll out:

1. Identity Check: Passengers show their ID at a special device that uses facial recognition to match their face to their ID photo.
2. Screening Lane: Travelers walk through new scanners that use artificial intelligence to spot anything unusual, which helps reduce false alarms and the need for pat-downs.
3. Remote Review: Images and data can be sent to central review centers, where experts can check them quickly and help speed up the process.
4. Integration: These systems work with TSA PreCheck, digital ID apps, and airport systems to give real-time updates on wait times and help airports use their staff better.
5. Automation: Robots and automated machines help with baggage handling and other tasks, cutting down on manual work and moving people through faster.

Current Progress and What’s Next

TSA is already using artificial intelligence and machine learning to cut the number of pat-downs in half, making screening faster and less invasive. As of April 2025, over 2,100 facial recognition devices are in use at more than 250 airports, with a goal to have them in all federal airports by 2049.

The agency is also testing new scanners that use safe millimeter waves and artificial intelligence to check for threats without needing passengers to remove shoes, jackets, or light sweaters. This technology protects privacy while making the process easier.

TSA’s Screening Partnership Program (SPP) is expanding, letting private companies provide not just staff but also technology solutions. These systems can be adjusted based on airport size and how many people are traveling.

Who Is Involved?

• TSA Acting Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill is leading the push for innovation and better passenger experiences.
• Homeland Security Secretary Noem made the announcement about the end of the shoe removal rule.
• TSA Chief Technology Officer Matt Gilkeson has highlighted how artificial intelligence and biometrics are making screening faster and more comfortable.
• The Department of Homeland Security’s Science & Technology Directorate is working with TSA on new imaging and artificial intelligence projects.

What Does This Mean for Travelers and Airports?

• For passengers: Expect shorter lines, fewer hassles, and less need to remove shoes or outerwear. Artificial intelligence will help spot threats more accurately, reducing unnecessary checks.
• For airports: There’s a chance to use new, flexible screening systems that fit their needs, saving money and improving operations.
• For private companies: There are big opportunities to provide new screening technology, especially those using artificial intelligence, biometrics, and automation.
• For TSA staff: Jobs will shift toward technology-focused roles, with less manual screening and more cross-training.

Different Views and Concerns

Security experts mostly support the move to artificial intelligence and biometrics, saying it will help catch threats and make screening smoother. However, they also warn that strong privacy protections are needed. Privacy advocates worry about how biometric data is used and stored. TSA says that using facial recognition is voluntary for now, and travelers can opt out if they wish.

Industry analysts see the new contract and RFI as a turning point. The Screening Partnership Program could become a full technology solution, not just a staffing option.

Background and Why This Is Happening Now

The Screening Partnership Program started in 2001, letting airports hire private screening staff under TSA rules. Since 2017, TSA has been testing and using biometric and artificial intelligence technology, with big growth in the last two years. In 2024, TSA screened over three million passengers in a single day for the first time, showing the urgent need for better, faster screening.

What’s Coming Next?

After the August 1, 2025 deadline, TSA will review the ideas from private companies. Contract awards and pilot programs are expected later in 2025 and into 2026. The rollout of artificial intelligence, biometrics, and automation will continue, with the goal of having advanced screening systems in place nationwide by 2049. TSA will keep updating its privacy and security rules as new technology is adopted and as it hears from the public.

Where to Find More Information

Travelers, companies, and airport officials can find more details on the TSA official website. Information about the RFI and how to participate is also available through the U.S. General Services Administration website. The Department of Homeland Security provides an AI Use Case Inventory for those interested in how artificial intelligence is being used in airport screening.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes mark a new era for airport screening in the United States 🇺🇸, with artificial intelligence, biometrics, and automation at the center. The next few months will be key as TSA chooses new solutions and begins testing them, shaping the future of air travel security and the experience for millions of travelers. Passengers should stay informed and watch for updates as these improvements roll out across airports nationwide.

Learn Today

Request for Information (RFI) → A formal request by TSA asking companies to submit innovative security technology proposals.
Biometric Identity Checks → Verification methods using unique personal traits like facial recognition for passenger identification.
Artificial Intelligence → Computer systems that simulate human intelligence to improve threat detection in airport screening.
Screening Partnership Program (SPP) → TSA’s program allowing private companies to provide screening personnel and technology solutions.
Millimeter Waves → Safe low-energy waves used in scanners to detect threats without physical contact or privacy invasion.

This Article in a Nutshell

Starting July 30, 2025, TSA will modernize airport screening using AI, biometrics, and automation to ensure faster, safer travel nationwide.
— By VisaVerge.com