The high volume of travelers returning from Fourth of July getaways helped the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) set a new single-day screening record. On Sunday, July 7, TSA officers screened 3,013,413 people at checkpoints nationwide, surpassing the previous record of 2.99 million set on June 23, 2024. This marked the highest number of travelers screened in a single day since the TSA’s inception in November 2001.
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas praised the TSA’s accomplishment, calling it “an extraordinary achievement.” He noted that TSA agents efficiently screened 35 passengers per second, along with their luggage, while maintaining professionalism and respect for travelers during the busy holiday weekend. Mayorkas extended his congratulations to the entire TSA workforce and Administrator David Pekoske for their exemplary performance.
As air travel continues to surge at record-breaking rates, which Mayorkas expects to persist in the coming months, he urged lawmakers to reconsider the compensation for TSA agents. This appeal highlights the growing demand and pressure on the TSA as it manages increasing numbers of travelers.
