Quiet Skies airport watchlist program terminated by DHS amid political concerns

The Department of Homeland Security has made the decision to end the Quiet Skies program, citing concerns about politicization and the program’s high cost. The program, which cost roughly $200 million annually, kept a watchlist and a list of people exempted from additional screenings at airport security.

According to DHS, the Quiet Skies program did not prevent any terrorist attacks and was deemed to be overly politicized. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the program was used as a political tool by the Biden administration, benefiting their allies and targeting their opponents. Noem has called for a Congressional investigation into the matter to uncover any corruption that may have occurred.

The list of exemptions under the Quiet Skies program included foreign royal families, political elites, professional athletes, and favored journalists, raising concerns about fairness and equal application of security policies. The program, which began in 2010, faced criticism from both the left and right, with groups like the American Civil Liberties Union questioning the program’s transparency and impact on travelers’ privacy.

Moving forward, DHS will focus on maintaining TSA’s critical aviation and security vetting functions, ensuring the safety and security of the traveling public. The department aims to restore integrity, privacy, and equal application of the law for all Americans in air travel security.

Specific instances were highlighted by DHS, including the removal of William Shaheen, the husband of New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, from the list after reaching out to the former head of TSA during the Biden administration. Senator Shaheen’s office confirmed the outreach but stated they were unaware of any specific lists her husband was on. The department also mentioned Tulsi Gabbard’s past placement on the Silent Partner Quiet Skies list.

The decision to end the Quiet Skies program comes after years of scrutiny and questions about its effectiveness and fairness. With the program being phased out, DHS is committed to prioritizing transparency, accountability, and the protection of travelers’ rights in air travel security.