As if flying wasnt scary already after reading this it might just get a tad bit scarier!
According to CNN, after an internal investigation with the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of the Inspector General, it was revealed that during the screening process 67 out of the 70 tests were failed across the U.S.!!
It is reported that the Transportation Security Administration failed to detect explosives and weapons 95% of the time when the undercover “Red Team” conducted their tests in various airports. Allegedly majority of the failed tests where on international flight agencies.
Rep. Jason Chaffetz, chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, described the reports as “deeply alarming.” He goes on to say, “Over the past six years, we have seen TSA consume an enormous amount of government resources, but I’m not convinced we have much to show for it,” he said in a statement. “After spending over $540 million on baggage screening equipment and millions more on training, the failure rate today is higher than it was in 2007. Something is not working.”
Since the release of the reports, TSA Director, Melvin Carraway, has been reassigned from his position. This statement has been released:
“Today, all air travelers are subject to a robust security system that employs multiple layers of protection, both seen and unseen, including: intelligence gathering and analysis, cross-checking passenger manifests against watchlists, screening at checkpoints, random canine team screening at airports, reinforced cockpit doors, Federal Air Marshals, armed pilots and a vigilant public,” the spokesperson said. “In combination, these layers provide enhanced security creating a much stronger and protected transportation system for the traveling public.”
TSA Deputy Director, Mark Hatfield, will stand in for Carraway while they find someone to replace him. It is unclear where Carraway will be resigned to.
Let’s chat below, after reading this are you rethinking your flight plans?
Sources Sited: CNN
