Streamlining Security Operations for Millions
In an era of increasing travel demands, efficient airport security screening is more critical than ever. Each day, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens over two million passengers, balancing safety with minimizing delays. A groundbreaking project led by Dr. Jorge A. Sefair from the University of Florida and Dr. Ronald Askin from Arizona State University is transforming how TSA utilizes its workforce to address these challenges.
“Our goal is to improve TSA checkpoint operations, balancing efficiency and security,” said Dr. Sefair. “By using optimization models, we help TSA process passengers faster while maintaining safety.”
A Complex Puzzle of Workforce Management
Airport security involves more than screening passengers. Each Security Screening CheckPoint (SSCP) must be staffed with certified Transportation Security Officers (TSOs), whose schedules must adhere to strict rules for breaks, overtime, and task rotations. Additionally, TSA must predict passenger arrival patterns—a task complicated by human behavior and logistical factors like shuttle schedules.
“The sheer number of variables—from gender-specific staffing requirements to the timing of break schedules—makes this a formidable challenge,” Dr. Sefair explained. “Our models provide realistic operational plans that account for these complexities.”
The research focuses on creating a suite of algorithms and models that optimize TSA’s daily and advance workforce planning. These models incorporate constraints such as shift schedules, certifications, and incident response capabilities. The solutions are being integrated into TSA’s Plan of Day (PoD) system, developed in collaboration with IBM.
From Research to Transition
What began as a capstone project with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has grown into a nationally significant effort. The team, which includes doctoral and master’s students, has developed models tested on synthetic data representing busy days at airports like Miami International. These models are now being validated and refined for large-scale deployment.
Key innovations include:
- Advanced Scheduling Algorithms: Tools that determine optimal TSO break schedules and task rotations.
- Real-Time Adaptability: Models capable of adjusting plans in response to disruptions like weather delays.
- Scalable Solutions: Algorithms designed to handle airports of varying sizes and complexities.
“Collaboration with TSA’s Innovation Task Force has been pivotal,” Dr. Sefair said. “Their insights and data have ensured our tools meet real-world needs.”
Unexpected Insights and Challenges and Real-World Impact
The research has uncovered surprising factors influencing checkpoint operations. For instance, passenger behavior—such as arriving early to enjoy airport amenities—and shuttle schedules significantly impact screening patterns. Data access was another hurdle, particularly with sensitive information, but close collaboration with TSA mitigated these challenges.
Dr. Sefair reflected on the project’s evolution: “What started as simple staffing tools expanded into a portfolio of solutions tailored to TSA’s decision-making needs. Each iteration improved accuracy and applicability.”
The tools developed have already demonstrated measurable benefits. During the COVID-19 pandemic, TSA used these models to make critical staffing decisions, enabling quicker and more efficient responses. The ripple effects extend beyond TSA, benefiting airport businesses and enhancing the passenger experience.
“Efficient checkpoints are a win-win,” said Dr. Sefair. “They improve passenger satisfaction while supporting TSA’s mission and operational goals.”
Looking Ahead
The next steps involve refining the rolling schedule heuristic algorithm and finalizing the real-time incident response model. Once complete, these tools will set a new standard for workforce management in airports nationwide.
“Our work showcases how applied mathematics and engineering can tackle real-world problems,” Dr. Sefair said. “It’s rewarding to see our research make a tangible difference.”
