Georgia’s two senators are asking the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to increase the number of security screeners at the world’s busiest passenger airport, according to a letter the two released.
In a letter to TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger, U.S. Sens. Johnny Isakson and David Perdue, both Republicans, cite increasing delays at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The two want the federal agency to add at least 100 new officers to the airport.
The TSA recently said it is planning to hire more than 700 new officers. Meanwhile, several airports nationwide are exploring the possibility of firing the TSA and replacing the federal agency with private security screeners, Bloomberg reported.
“The continued success of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is critical to the prosperity of metro Atlanta and the state of Georgia,” the senators wrote. “Given the heavy passenger volumes forecast for Atlanta this summer, it is critical that adequate, trained personnel are in place to meet the expected demand.”
“Increasing the number of transportation security officers will result in better, more efficient use of Hartsfield-Jackson’s many screening lanes during all periods of the day, and especially at peak travel times,” they added. “This will help prevent passenger inconvenience and missed flights. Furthermore, quickly clearing passengers from non-secured areas will enhance airport safety.”
Earlier this month, the TSA removed Kelly Hoggan, who in May 2013 was named assistant administrator for the Office of Security Operations, from his position. His removal “came amid allegations of under-the-radar bonuses and targeted retribution at the highest levels of the agency,” The Washington Post reported.