What is the primary responsibility of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)?

The primary responsibility of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is to ensure the security of the nation's transportation systems, which includes specifically the screening of airline passengers, baggage, and cargo. This function is crucial for maintaining safety in air travel and preventing potential threats to aviation security. The TSA was established in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks to enhance security measures and procedures at airports across the United States.

The TSA implements a variety of screening processes and technologies to detect prohibited items and assess risks, thereby playing a vital role in protecting the traveling public and maintaining the integrity of air transportation. Every passenger and piece of baggage is subjected to thorough screening before they can board a flight, which is a critical measure in safeguarding against terrorism and other security threats.

The other options are incorrect as they relate to different aspects of aviation that fall outside the TSA’s primary functions. For example, aeronautical chart production is handled by agencies like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Certification of civil aircraft falls under the jurisdiction of the FAA, which is responsible for ensuring that aircraft meet safety standards. Management of air traffic control is also a task assigned to the FAA, which oversees the air traffic control system to ensure