TSA Phases Out Known Crewmember Program Over Security Concerns

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States has announced that it will phase out the Known Crewmember (KCM) program by late November 2025, replacing it with a new initiative called the Crewmember Access Point (CMAP). This change comes in response to increasing incidents of airline personnel misusing KCM privileges to smuggle prohibited items, including drugs, cash, and weapons.

Introduced in 2011, the KCM program allowed eligible pilots and flight attendants to bypass standard security screenings by presenting their credentials at designated access points. While participants were subject to random screenings, reports indicate that some crew members exploited the system to transport illicit items.

The forthcoming CMAP program will be solely managed by the TSA, departing from the joint oversight previously shared with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) and Airlines for America (A4A). Although specific details about CMAP are pending, it is anticipated that airline crew members will undergo more consistent security screenings, potentially through dedicated lanes to streamline the process.

This transition aims to enhance aviation security by addressing vulnerabilities in the current system while balancing efficiency for airline personnel. The TSA has not yet provided comprehensive information about how CMAP will operate, but further announcements are expected as the implementation date approaches.

What This Means for Airline Staff

For airline crew members accustomed to the ease of the KCM program, the transition to CMAP could bring more scrutiny to their travel routines. While many understand the importance of heightened security, concerns remain about potential delays or bottlenecks caused by the new procedures.

The aviation community is watching closely as the TSA rolls out details about CMAP. Many crew members hope for a system that preserves the convenience of KCM while addressing the program’s vulnerabilities. Airline crew should prepare for changes in how they navigate airport security when traveling for work or fun, particularly during busy travel periods.