How does the TSA primarily protect travelers and the transportation system?

The primary way the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) protects travelers and the transportation system is through the screening and securing of airports and other transport hubs. This role involves various security measures, including passenger screenings, baggage checks, and the deployment of advanced technology to prevent potential threats, ensuring a safe and secure travel environment. The TSA also works to protect air traffic and enhance security protocols across the transportation network.

Other options do have roles in overall transportation safety and regulation. For instance, conducting inspections of vehicles is essential for roadway safety, and enforcing traffic laws helps maintain order on the roads. Regulating fares and ticket prices pertains more to economic aspects of transportation and does not directly address the security measures the TSA implements to safeguard travelers. By focusing on screening and securing transport hubs, the TSA directly addresses threats to public safety within the aviation sector, making this option the best representation of its core mission.