Air Marshal Roles and Airport Security Explored On CBS With TSA Head

TSA agent checks passenger's documents at airport security.

As federal air marshals head to the southern border, concerns arise about the implications for airport security.

At a Glance

TSA claims border deployments of air marshals don’t affect air security.
Air marshals can be recalled swiftly from border duties if needed.
Controversy surrounds using air marshals for immigration-related issues.
Concerns grow among lawmakers and citizens about in-flight safety.

Air Marshal Deployments

David Pekoske, TSA Administrator, assured in a recent CBS Mornings interview that the current deployment of air marshals to the U.S.-Mexico border has not compromised air security. Pekoske emphasized, “If we need them back right away, we get them back right away.” The redeployments occur only when air marshals can be spared and quickly returned when necessary.

Partnerships between TSA and Customs and Border Protection ensure marshals assist at the border only when specific thresholds are met. According to Pekoske, the deployment, a practice in place since 2019, proceeds without diminishing airport security.

Security Concerns Raised

A recent incident on a United flight highlighted potential risks associated with deploying air marshals away from flights. In March 2023, Gretchün Ciluzzi confronted an unruly passenger attempting to open an emergency door. The flight lacked an air marshal, drawing concern from the Air Marshal National Council about leaving flights unprotected due to border redeployments.

This situation adds to arguments that air marshals performing non-security roles at the border affect their primary mission. The cost of redeployments stands at $45 million, sparking debates on resource allocation while some lawmakers press to prioritize in-flight protection.

While in NYC yesterday, I had the absolute honor of visiting the @Sept11Memorial with new hires & Veteran officers from @TSA, including a Federal Air Marshal who lost his father, a firefighter, on 9/11.
Last week, we marked 23 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, & while over… pic.twitter.com/OTltsEqUIO

— David P. Pekoske (@TSA_Pekoske) September 19, 2024

Legislative and Public Reactions

Republican lawmakers, including Senator Ted Cruz, have voiced their concerns, introducing legislation to limit air marshals’ border deployment unless a national emergency is declared. Cruz argues, “It is concerning that the administration has prioritized ushering illegal immigrants into the country over protecting the lives and safety of the traveling public.”

Despite reassurances, the debate continues over whether these deployments compromise security on flights. TSA’s stance remains firm, as Pekoske stated, “There has been no impact on air security.” However, pressure mounts on the agency to reassess its strategies and ensure passenger safety amid the evolving priorities at the border.