Senator Moran Introduces SAFEGUARDS Act to Enhance Aviation Security

By: U.S. Senator Jerry Moran

Aviation security, a vital component of national safety, is currently funded by a $5.60 security fee placed on every one-way airline ticket sold in the United States. Introduced two decades ago in the wake of 9/11, this fee was designed to enhance aviation security, improve technology, and support dedicated personnel.

In 2025, this fee generated $4.5 billion, but a significant portion of this revenue has been redirected to non-aviation security purposes since 2014, eroding public trust and undercutting the original intent of the fee. This situation calls for transparent use of funds to ensure public confidence in the commitment to aviation safety.

Addressing this issue, the Spending Aviation Fees for Equipment, Guaranteeing Upgraded and Advanced Risk Detection and Safety (SAFEGUARDS) Act has been introduced. This bipartisan effort seeks to reallocate much of the collected fees back to aviation security, empowering the TSA to invest in advanced screening tools and improve security systems that protect millions of travelers daily.

With TSA operating across 420 airports and managing 2,400 security lanes, modernizing airport security infrastructure can lead to reduced wait times, enhanced checkpoint experiences, and bolstered detection capabilities.

Beyond airport convenience, the airline industry plays a crucial role in connecting communities and supporting the economy. Inefficiencies in security infrastructure can result in tangible costs affecting passengers, airlines, and the broader economy. Ensuring robust and efficient air travel infrastructure is vital to economic and national security.

Air travel is at an all-time high, and with resource constraints, particularly in rural airports, consistent funding for aviation security is essential for future planning and growth.

The SAFEGUARDS Act is a collaborative effort, garnering support across political lines, emphasizing that aviation safety is a shared responsibility. The legislation echoes the public's expectation for practical solutions that prioritize safety and responsible use of taxpayer money.

Maintaining the world’s safest aviation system requires sustained vigilance and investment in security. As passenger numbers rise and threats evolve, it’s imperative that funds dedicated to aviation safety are effectively applied.

The SAFEGUARDS Act represents a clear, bipartisan commitment to uphold security promises to travelers, ensuring aviation infrastructure keeps pace with future challenges. Such legislative action reassures passengers, taxpayers, and communities reliant on aviation connectivity.