DeSantis suggests eliminating TSA. Critics warn of potential safety risks while supporters say it could boost efficiency

FLORIDA – A proposal from Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to eliminate the Transportation Security Administration drew mixed reactions from travelers, aviation experts and lawmakers.

The governor made the suggestion over the weekend on X, questioning whether the agency has improved air travel safety over the past 25 years. He argued that airports and airlines could handle security screening instead of the federal government.

The idea comes as a government shutdown impacts airports nationwide and ongoing global conflicts raise broader security concerns.

Some supporters of the proposal say privatizing screening could improve efficiency. They point to airports like San Francisco International Airport, where private contractors handle screening under federal oversight.

Others strongly disagree, warning that shifting responsibility away from a centralized system could create security gaps.

News4JAX aviation expert Ed Booth, who has more than two decades of flying experience, criticized the proposal. He cited the TSA’s safety record since the September 11 attacks, after which the agency was created.

Booth said the attacks exposed major failures in airport screening and led to nationwide security standards designed to prevent similar incidents.

He warned that allowing airlines or local governments to manage screening could increase the risk of dangerous items making it onto planes.

At Jacksonville International Airport, officials say they have not been contacted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to assist with TSA operations during the shutdown. They add the longest wait times on Monday were about 20 minutes.

ICE agents were deployed to several major airports, including in New York, Chicago and Atlanta, to help with delays.

The governor’s office has not yet responded to requests for additional comment.