In 1995 , Jacobson and John E. Kobza authored the first paper demonstrating how operations research models could be used to optimize the performance of aviation security systems . They co-led the first study analyzing the costs and benefits of 100 % checked baggage screening . Jacobson also designed and analyzed a class of multi-level passenger prescreening models to optimize the performance of aviation passenger and baggage security operations using a risk-based paradigm . This research , funded by the National Science Foundation , served as a precursor for risk-based aviation security policies ( including the Transportation Security Administration 's PreCheck program ) that are now used at commercial airports throughout the United States . This research was recognized with the 2018 INFORMS Impact Prize for its contributions to risk-based security in aviation security and its influence on TSA PreCheck . During the 2014 Ebola outbreak in the United States , Jacobson argued that risk-based security screening concepts could also be applied to the health threat . After the 2016 Atatürk Airport attack in Istanbul , Turkey , Jacobson contended that decreasing pressure on checkpoints inside airports is essential , advocating for more enrollment in expedited screening such as TSA PreCheck . In late 2016 , he published a study showing that waiving the $ 85 TSA PreCheck fee would result in a net savings of $ 34 million due to reduced screening costs
2016 Atatürk Airport attack
2016 Atatürk Airport attack
Sheldon H. Jacobson