Yes — the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was created largely in response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, with its primary mission being to prevent future attacks on transportation systems, especially aviation.
When it was formed under the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (signed into law in November 2001), its core responsibilities included:
- Screening passengers and baggage to detect weapons, explosives, or other dangerous items that could be used in a terrorist attack.
- Securing airports and aircraft to prevent hijackings.
- Implementing uniform federal security standards across U.S. airports.
While the TSA’s scope has since broadened to cover multiple modes of transportation and general public safety, its original mandate was explicitly about detecting and deterring terrorists from boarding planes.