Aviation securityTSA will provide a tracking number for those calling to report suspicious activity

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), through a notice in the Federal Register, yesterday announced that individuals who contact the TSA Contact Center (TCC) to report suspicious activity will now receive a tracking number as confirmation of their phone call or e-mail – thus fulfilling a key requirement of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 and providing improved follow-up tools for both TSA and the reporting individual.

The tracking number, which enables both TSA and the individual to follow-up on their security concerns if necessary, is intended to provide a documentation mechanism for anyone reporting transportation-related security problems, deficiencies, or vulnerabilities in all modes of transportation.

“TSA is pleased to fulfill another requirement of the 9/11 Commission,” said TSA administrator John S. Pistole. “We encourage the traveling public to continue playing a role in keeping our transportation systems secure by reporting suspicious activity to TSA or local law enforcement.”

The TCC was established in June 2002 as a direct line for the traveling public to contact TSA. Through the TCC, TSA receives information concerning potential threats to transportation security and responds to comments and questions from the public regarding processes and procedures at airports. The call center can be reached at 866-289-9673 or by visiting www.tsa.gov.

A TSA release notes that in 2010 TSA also fulfilled two key 9/11 Commission recommendations by providing 100 percent watchlist vetting of passengers on flights within or bound to the United States under Secure Flight, and by implementing 100 percent screening of air cargo on domestic passenger aircraft.