Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Director Jacqueline Yaft is seeking assistance from the federal government to address an ongoing passenger surge, according to a report from Austin ABC affiliate KVUE.
KVUE reported that Yaft has yet to have her facility's request for more Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents fulfilled as long lines continue to plague the major Central Texas gateway.
U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Austin) has stepped in to call for more agents at AUS, writing both TSA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to expedite Yaft's request, according to the station.
Yaft said that AUS requires at least 100 more agents and K-9 units to handle the unprecedented passenger volume. She wrote the letter to the top TSA official about a month ago, KVUE reported.
Yaft also sent a letter to CBP seeking a minimum of 15 additional agents to help screen passengers flying into AUS from abroad, the station reported.
The director asserted that the lines are so bad to the point incoming passengers have to wait on their planes until the overcrowding ceases.
According to KVUE, Yaft also fears that the airport's problems could ruin the city's reputation, as well as present an opportunity for terrorists to strike.
"Unfortunately long lines that stretch through the terminal and even to the curbside peak days have become a normal occurrence at AUS," Yaft said in her letter obtained by the station. "We fear these issues will only get worse as the spring and summer airline schedules increase passenger demand."
Doggett himself also warned in writing of the dire effects the lines could have on the airport and the state capital.
“Austin’s status as an international city supporting world-class endeavors and worldwide visitors is being held hostage by its airport’s inability to access TSA support," the lawmaker wrote. “Without the support of TSA staffing, AUS’s efforts fall short.”
Doggett said neither agency followed up on his request.