The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is working to establish a unique “one-stop security” agreement with India to eliminate the need for rescreening of passengers.
TSA Administrator David Pekoske highlighted this initiative at the India-U.S.
Aviation Summit, emphasising its potential to enhance global aviation security standards.
The primary benefit of this agreement would be the elimination of duplicate security checks for passengers and their baggage at transfer points between the two countries.
Pekoske described the concept as highly achievable and tangible, stating that it would mean passengers would not need to be rescreened when arriving in one country and transferring to a domestic flight in the other. Instead, checked luggage would be automatically transferred to the connecting aircraft. He explained that such a one-stop security pact would raise global aviation security standards.
Pekoske termed this concept “really powerful,” noting that flights inbound to the U.S. would become more secure. If a reverse agreement is reached, U.S. screening would satisfy Indian security standards, thereby enhancing the security of Indian flights as well. He emphasised that such a deal would require regular exchange of information and improvements in security processes.
The proposed agreement aims to streamline the travel experience for passengers while maintaining robust security measures. By eliminating the need for rescreening, it would reduce wait times and improve efficiency at airports. Moreover, the enhanced cooperation between the U.S. and India in aviation security would set an example for other countries to follow, contributing to the overall improvement of global aviation security standards.
