Travelers in the United States often dread airport security checks, but certain airports stand out for particularly negative experiences. According to a 2024 data study by Upgraded Points, some U.S. airports have significantly higher rates of complaints about TSA processes compared to others. While the national average is 3.92 complaints per 100,000 passengers, specific airports report much higher dissatisfaction levels. This article explores why these locations face more criticism and what travelers can expect when passing through their security checkpoints.
Among the worst offenders are Newark Liberty International Airport, Palm Beach International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Southwest Florida International Airport, and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. These hubs have received notable complaints ranging from understaffing and delays to rude behavior from TSA personnel. However, some airports, like Southwest Florida International, also receive praise despite high complaint numbers. Understanding these issues can help travelers prepare better and avoid potential pitfalls.
Troubled Security Checkpoints: A Closer Look at High-Complaint Airports
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) ranks as the most problematic for TSA experiences, with 6.83 complaints per 100,000 passengers. Despite recent upgrades to its security checkpoints, issues persist. Many complaints focus on inefficiencies such as unavailable TSA PreCheck lanes and lengthy waits causing missed flights. Similarly, Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) faces challenges with hostile TSA agents and inconsistent enforcement of rules, leading to passenger frustration.
At Newark Liberty International Airport, even after checkpoint improvements, recurring problems remain. Passengers frequently mention long lines and lack of proper staffing during peak hours. Online reviews highlight situations where TSA PreCheck services were either unavailable or poorly managed, contributing to significant delays. Meanwhile, at Palm Beach International Airport, customer service concerns dominate discussions. Reports indicate overly aggressive TSA staff who fail to maintain professionalism, creating an unpleasant atmosphere for travelers. Such interactions not only affect individual experiences but also tarnish the overall reputation of these airports.
Regional Differences in TSA Performance Across Major Hubs
Orlando International Airport (MCO), Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) each present unique challenges within their respective regions. MCO struggles with overcrowding and confusion among TSA agents, while RSW deals with perceived understaffing. In contrast, CLE’s issue stems partly from limited checkpoint operating hours affecting flight schedules.
Orlando International Airport's problems largely stem from its status as one of the busiest airports in the country. Travelers complain about chaotic scenes at security checkpoints due to unclear instructions and rushed procedures. Services like MCO Reserve aim to alleviate stress by allowing reserved time slots, yet they cannot entirely resolve underlying organizational flaws. On the other hand, Southwest Florida International Airport occasionally suffers from insufficient manpower, though many reviews reflect positively on its efficiency. Lastly, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport highlights operational constraints; restricted checkpoint availability forces early arrivals to navigate extended queues, impacting punctuality. These regional disparities underscore the importance of tailoring solutions specific to each airport's needs rather than applying generic fixes across the board.