TSA Announces New Penalty For Unruly Passengers

The $50,000 fines weren’t enough to deter passengers engaging in poor conduct on flights so The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have collaborated to levy additional penalties on unruly passengers by denying  them TSA Pre-Check memberships.

“If you act out of line, you will wait in line,” FAA Administrator Steve Dickson said.

Under the new agreement, the FAA will provide the TSA with the names and contact information of passengers who have been fined for disruptive behaviour. The TSA may then elect to revoke the disrespectful passenger’s TSA Pre-Check membership.

TSA Pre-Check membership, which costs $85 for five years, allows travellers to bypass lengthy security lines and get faster security screening (including a metal detector instead of a body scanner).

“TSA has zero tolerance for the unruly behaviors, especially those involving physical assault occurring aboard aircraft. We have tremendous respect for airport staff, gate agents and flight crews that get people safely to their destinations,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske.

“This partnership with FAA will help ensure the safety and security of all passengers and hold those who violate federal regulations accountable for their actions.”

Members may be rejected or suspended from TSA Pre-Check if they violate federal security standards, such as refusing to wear a mask, per the TSA.