The Challenge

America’s travel infrastructure is outdated, underfunded and inefficient—posing risks to national security and economic growth. Urgent action is needed to upgrade the American travel experience.

It's Time To Make American Travel the Best in The World

With 40 million visitors expected over the next four years—and a surge in domestic travel—a nearly $100 billion economic opportunity is within reach. By investing in modernization now, the White House and Congress can usher in a new Golden Age of Travel, strengthening our economy and setting a new global standard.

Here's How We Get There:

The Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel just released a bold policy roadmap that outlines concrete solutions to improve air travel and enhance U.S. global competitiveness.

View the Commission's Policy Roadmap

About The Commission

Chaired by former Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin McAleenan, the Commission brings together former government officials and private sector leaders to advance a vision for modern, secure and efficient travel. U.S. Travel established the Commission in response to mounting evidence that the U.S. is falling behind global competitors in the race to grow and modernize travel. 

The Commission’s Latest Activities: 

• In November, members of the Commission participated in a panel discussion at the Future of Travel Mobility Conference, previewing key recommendations they plan to present in 2025 to modernize and streamline the travel experience—all while strengthening national security. 
• In August, the Commission convened in Washington, D.C. to tour Washington Dulles International Airport with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Systems Integration Facility near Reagan National Airport with TSA Administrator David Pekoske. Commission members held discussions with U.S. Travel’s Airport and Airlines Advisory Group as well as other key industry leaders, incorporating input and potential recommendations for consideration in their final report.
• During a visit to London in June, the Commission engaged with U.K. airports, airlines and U.S. government representatives on efforts to modernize travel. Commission members met with leaders at London Heathrow Airport and officials from Gatwick Airport, Edinburgh Airport, Virgin Atlantic, International Airlines Group and British Airways as well as senior personnel of the U.S. Embassy in London. Read more.
• Coinciding with IPW 2024 in May, the Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel, alongside Senator Jerry Moran and U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials, conducted a field visit to LAX Airport to gain firsthand insights into CBP’s latest innovations and the international passenger experience. Read more.
• In April, the Commission, joined by leaders of TSA, Delta Air Lines and U.S. Travel, toured innovations, such as TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, CAT-2 screening technology and Delta’s curb-to-gate digital identity experience, at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. During the visit, TSA Deputy Administrator Holly Canevari joined U.S. Travel EVP of Public Affairs and Policy, Tori Barnes for a conversation on TSA’s efforts to improve and modernize the travel experience. Listen to their conversation.
• Also in April, the Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel briefed Congress members and staff on enhancing the competitiveness of the U.S. travel industry. Commission members highlighted key opportunities for Congress to improve U.S. global competitiveness, particularly in preparation for major events like the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. Read more.
• In February, Commission members joined TSA Administrator David Pekoske, TSA officials and U.S. Travel Association leaders for a demonstration of advanced security checkpoint technology at the Innovation Checkpoint at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas. The Las Vegas visit was an opportunity for TSA and DHS Science & Technology Directorate to showcase the cutting-edge innovations that bolster transportation security and revolutionize the travel experience. Learn more.

In the coming months, the commission will further engage federal agencies during additional field visits to learn more about best practices, pain points and opportunities to improve and grow travel.