The United States is on the brink of an unprecedented travel surge, yet its outdated infrastructure threatens to buckle under mounting pressure. Major global events—including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the 2025 Ryder Cup, and America’s 250th anniversary in 2026—are expected to drive record-breaking travel demand. However, without immediate action, the nation’s air travel system may reach a breaking point.

A newly released report by the U.S. Travel Association’s Commission on Seamless & Secure Travel outlines a strategic roadmap to modernize the travel experience and position the U.S. as the world’s top destination.

A System Under Strain Travelers across the country are already experiencing the strain—long security lines, excessive visa wait times, and overwhelmed customs checkpoints. By 2030, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be processing an estimated 3 million travelers daily, while air traffic control faces a shortfall of 3,500 controllers. Outdated technology further compounds the challenge, increasing inefficiencies and traveler frustration. Without decisive action, experts warn that the system could collapse under its own weight.

A Vision for the Future Imagine a seamless travel experience: walking from curb to gate without long waits, no ID checks, and no need to remove electronics or liquids from carry-on bags. While this vision may seem futuristic, it is within reach through strategic policy reforms and technological advancements.

The Commission has proposed four key recommendations to President Donald Trump and Congress to ensure a smoother, more secure travel experience:

1. Revolutionizing Airport Screening: Introduce the most significant TSA enhancements since PreCheck, eliminating long security lines while improving safety measures.
2. Establishing White House Leadership: Form a dedicated task force to coordinate federal efforts and promote the U.S. as a premier destination during upcoming landmark events.
3. Streamlining the Visa Process: Reduce visa wait times and increase consular staffing to accommodate the influx of international visitors, particularly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
4. Modernizing Arrival Procedures: Strengthen U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations by implementing biometric screening and an advanced air exit system to track overstays, ensuring a secure and efficient entry process.

Urgency for Action “The improvements we propose represent the most transformative air travel reforms since the launch of TSA PreCheck,” stated Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “Each recommendation is designed to enhance both security and efficiency, providing a frictionless travel experience for millions.”

Kevin McAleenan, former Acting Secretary of Homeland Security and Chair of the Commission, stressed the importance of public-private collaboration. “With strategic investments in smart technology, streamlined processes, and strengthened partnerships, we can maintain security while accommodating record-breaking travel demand,” he said.

Seizing a Rare Opportunity With bipartisan momentum and a new administration in place, the U.S. has a unique opportunity to revolutionize its travel infrastructure. The Commission—comprising former officials from the Department of Homeland Security, CBP, TSA, and the State Department, alongside private sector experts—urges immediate action to ensure the U.S. travel system meets global expectations.

“This is the moment to deliver the world-class travel system that Americans deserve and international travelers expect,” Freeman concluded.

With the clock ticking and a $100 billion economic opportunity at stake, the question remains: Will America be ready?