David Cummins

Stories

TSA removes chairs from airport ID checkpoints

Defends the chair removal as the 'right thing to do' while acknowledging staff unhappiness

The Transportation Security Administration has removed chairs from travel document checkers at airport checkpoints nationwide. Officers who check boarding passes and IDs must stand while working the podium, which the agency says keeps them alert and improves the passenger experience.

Updated Oct 21

TSA plans facial comparison e-gates at Logan, no timeline set

New Capabilities

As of September 2026: Announced new security technology for Logan

TSA Administrator David Cummins says Logan Airport will get e-gates with facial comparison technology. PreCheck travelers could keep their driver's license and boarding pass in their pocket and walk through security. The agency hasn't said when.

Updated Sep 11

Notable Quotes

"TSA does not have to choose between a secure checkpoint, an efficient checkpoint, and an elevated passenger experience."

from TSA removes chairs from airport ID checkpoints · Updated Oct 21

"This welcome change reinforces both our security posture and our commitment to hospitality by having these officers on their feet and alert."

from TSA removes chairs from airport ID checkpoints · Updated Oct 21

"Not everybody was happy" with the decision, but it was the "right thing to do."

from TSA removes chairs from airport ID checkpoints · Updated Oct 21

You're going to have E-gates with facial comparison technology where you can keep your driver's license and your boarding pass in your pocket and just walk on through the E-gate and then put your bag on a 3D scanner.

from TSA plans facial comparison e-gates at Logan, no timeline set · Updated Sep 11