America stands on the verge of a significant travel increase; however, without prompt intervention, our antiquated air travel infrastructure may struggle to cope with the impending demand, as highlighted in a recent report by the Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel.
The Commission is comprised of former government officials — from the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Transportation Security Administration and the State Department — along with private sector experts from airport management and investment entities.
The report outlines critical measures necessary to ensure that President Trump can usher in a “golden age of travel” in anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the 2025 Ryder Cup, and the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Today, the travel sector unveiled a strategic plan to establish America as the premier global travel destination while preventing significant entry delays, overwhelmed TSA checkpoints, and dissatisfied travelers as the nation gears up for a decade filled with historic international events.
In addition to the security reforms detailed in the report, travel sector continues to advocate for the urgent modernization of air traffic control systems and solutions to address the shortage of air traffic controllers in the country.
America is facing a remarkable opportunity — the critical question is whether we will take advantage of it or fall frustratingly short. The upcoming years will witness an unprecedented surge in travel demand that our current systems are ill-equipped to manage. Washington has a limited timeframe to address significant travel challenges and unlock a $100 billion economic potential — but this will necessitate a level of urgency that has been lacking in recent times.
The recommendations put forth by the Commission were shaped by insights from experts in both government and the private sector, reflecting the diligent efforts and investments made by various agencies in the realm of national security, stated Kevin McAleenan, former Acting Secretary of Homeland Security and Chair of the Commission. He emphasized that the proposed measures aimed at bolstering security while improving facilitation through strategic technology investments, process enhancements, and collaboration between government and private entities present a significant opportunity to upgrade our travel infrastructure and attract more visitors.
In light of the Commission’s findings, the US Travel urges Congress and the Trump Administration to implement four key actions:
- Establish leadership from the White House to represent America at major international events. The Trump Administration should promptly form a task force, led by a senior official from the White House, to ensure consistent leadership and attention throughout the federal government, capitalizing on global opportunities over the next four years.
2. Fulfill President Trump’s commitment to efficiently and securely process visas for the 2026 World Cup.
- Ensure robust consular staffing for visa processing.
- Extend the validity of B-1/B-2 visas for vetted, lawful visitors by an additional two years.
- Create a National Vetting Service that builds upon President Trump’s National Vetting Center, ensuring all visitor visas are processed within 30 days or less.
- Establish a “Secure Travel Partnership” initiative to expand the number of countries with strong travel security agreements with the United States, serving as a pathway to the Visa Waiver Program.
4. Develop the most advanced and secure airport screening procedures by making a significant investment in security technology. Immediately cease the diversion of the Passenger Security Fee and enhance funding for technology to guarantee that within five years, all travelers can carry larger liquids in their carry-ons, keep electronics and identification in their bags, and retain their shoes, jackets, and belts during screening.
5. Construct robust, modern, and efficient airport borders to ensure the safety of America while facilitating global travel.
- Provide comprehensive staffing for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at airport customs.
- Eliminate lengthy customs wait times for Americans returning from abroad by utilizing biometrics and advanced vetting processes, allowing travelers to bypass meetings with a CBP officer unless they have items to declare.
- Enhance measures against immigration overstays by implementing biometric air exit procedures within two years.
With support from both parties and a new administration established, the United States has a unique opportunity to revamp its travel infrastructure. This is the time to create the exceptional travel system that Americans rightfully deserve and that the global community anticipates.
