How to judge an airport security-fee increase fairly
An increase in airport security fees often faces public dislike and may be poorly communicated or designed. These issues do not automatically indicate criminal activity or corruption by the technology providers, airport authorities, or the government. To judge the fee fairly, one must rely on documentary evidence. This involves identifying who authorized the price change and the specific service the funds support. It also requires knowing the effective date of the increase. Finally, observers should determine who collects the money and how the accounts are reconciled.
An increase in an airport security fee can be unpopular, poorly explained or even badly designed. None of those facts, by itself, proves corruption or criminal wrongdoing by the government, airport authority or technology supplier involved. The proper test is documentary: who approved the change, what service it funds, when it takes effect, who collects it and how the money is reconciled.