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TSA takes blame for massive security mess at DIA

Posted at 8:53 PM, Jan 13, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-14 01:58:32-05

A TSA spokesperson says the agency is responsible for excessive wait times at Denver International Airport security lines last month.

Passengers told Denver7 they waited up to 3 or 4 hours to get through security on Dec. 28 and 29.

DIA officials immediately said this was the result of improperly staffed TSA checkpoints. The TSA hadn’t formally commented until Wednesday:

“After further investigation, TSA determined that correct staffing protocols were not followed at Denver International Airport,” a spokesperson said.

Airlines added a large number of flights to accommodate holiday passengers but the TSA said this wasn’t a factor in wait times. According to a TSA statement, more travelers flew on those two days than was forecasted by the airlines. Additionally, passengers came through DIA later than anticipated, likely because of weather conditions across the country.

“That said, the TSA should have adjusted staffing and opened more lanes,” the statement said.

The spokesperson adds the TSA learned lessons from the experience.

People began bashing the agency and the airport overnight on Dec. 28 as travelers piled up in line. DIA responded to them and said that night that this was the fault of the TSA.

A record number of people flew through DIA in November. Officials expect December set new records, as well.