MIAMI - The Transportation Security Administration has begun cutting 230 screener positions at Miami International Airport, a step that could mean longer lines for passengers.
The federal agency decided to trim the number of passenger and luggage screeners from 1,700 earlier this year to bring Miami in line with airports across the country.
But airport officials are concerned that cuts may result in delays, and Miami-Dade County's congressional delegation has asked the federal government not to continue with the reductions, which were implemented amid plans to open a new terminal next year.
"These cuts will increase congestion at a crucial gateway to the Americas," said Rep. Kendrick Meek, a Miami Democrat.
Passengers of at least one airline, American Airlines, currently face waits of about 30 minutes and long lines during peak travel times, particularly on the airport's Concourse D, airport officials said.
"It's going to be very tough," aviation director Jose Abreu said.
The decision to cut the number of screeners is surprising, in view of the agency's decision to hire about 400 new screeners in early 2004 to relieve delays, said Ana Sottorio, the airport's associate director of governmental affairs. Miami has the third-highest number of international travelers among U.S. airports, and they carry more luggage, Sottorio said. All the bags need to be checked for weapons and explosives.
"We think the current level of staffing is what's needed," Sottorio said.
The cuts could be restored if delays increase, agency spokeswoman Lauren Stover said.
The recent decision to allow passengers to carry aboard previously banned items such as screwdrivers and tweezers is expected to speed the boarding process, Stover said.
