The Transportation Security Administration Does Not Properly Manage Its Airport Screening Equipment Maintenance Program

We reviewed TSA’s airport screening equipment maintenance program to determine whether TSA is properly managing its screening equipment maintenance contracts and related maintenance activities. TSA’s four maintenance contracts, which cover both preventive and corrective maintenance, are valued at about $1.2 billion. According to TSA, in fiscal year 2014, it spent about $251 million on maintenance for its screening equipment. TSA is not properly managing the maintenance of its airport screening equipment. Specifically, TSA has not issued adequate policies and procedures to airports for carrying out equipment maintenance-related responsibilities. Because TSA does not adequately oversee equipment maintenance, it cannot be assured that routine preventive maintenance is performed or that equipment is repaired and ready for operational use.