GAO Finds TSA’s Secure Flight Program Incomplete

This isn’t really much of a surprise in light of some of the recent publicity regarding the TSA’s use of passenger information. But I guess now it is official. The GA0’s report, titled “Aviation Security: Secure Flight Development and Testing Under Way, but Risks Should Be Managed as System Is Further Developed” found that the TSA’s efforts on the Secure Flight program were incomplete and that it still needed to complete work in the areas of privacy protections, accuracy of data, oversight, cost and safeguards to ensure the system won’t be abused or accessed by unauthorized people. The GAO recommended that TSA “take several actions to mange risks associated with Secure Flight’s development, including (1) finalizing requirements and test plans, privacy and redress requirements, and program cost estimates; and (2) establishing plans to achieve connectivity to obtain data, and performance goals and measures.” For more detailed information, you should read the 85 page report.