ASCI 202 Case Analysis: Introduction To Aeronautical Science

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ASCI 202 Introduction to Aeronautical Science
Case Analysis
Aviation Security (Module 4)

Daniel Littell
September 2, 2016

Case Analysis - Aviation Security
I. Summary Prior to the terrorist attacks that took place in the United States on September 11, 2001, security screening of airline passengers was contracted by individual airports or by the airline companies themselves. Afterward, with the passing of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (ATSA), the power of securing the nation's airports was given to the Transportation Security Agency (TSA). (ATSA, 2001) The United States of America is one of only a few countries in the world that has its transportation security agency act as both regulator and operator at its airports. …show more content…

Since 2002, the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has been using Covenant Aviation Security (CAS) in place of TSA agents to perform screening duties. Covenant currently holds ten SPP contracts at airports across the United States. Other SPP contractors include First Line Transportation and Trinity Technology Group. According to reports these SPP contractors actually outperform TSA by reducing training costs, improving passenger satisfaction, and providing a high level of security. (Bradley, J. …show more content…

Otherwise, the TSA may choose to change the company or to revert back to using federal screeners when the contract term expires. They cannot afford to grow complacent and should attempt to keep up a competitive advantage. SPP contractors tend to hold workers more responsible to satisfy their customers (TSA and airports). They can cut costs without compromising the safety and security of the passengers and airlines. (Naylor, B. 2011)
Disadvantages.
The US Government Accountability Office (GAO) did an investigation and questioned 32 airport operators regarding the disadvantages of switching to a SPP contractor. The only disadvantage was many airports were concerned about the transition process. Many airports have not submitted their applications for SPP because they fear the potential logistical nightmare that may occur if things don't go smoothly. (U.S. GAO, 2012) Alternative Action 2. Stick with using the federalized screening provided by the TSA. The same GAO investigative report revealed that many airports were happy with their TSA screeners and will not try and pursue a privately contracted

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