U.S. Airports Make Thousands From Lost Change Every Year

from Felix Richter, Statista.com
by Niall McCarthy

Have you ever rushed through an airport security check only to realise some change fell out of your pocket along the way?

In the United States, the Transport Security Administration gets to keep all money lost by careless travellers during security screening. Even though a few coins falling into the odd tray at security may not seem all that much, it swiftly adds up.

In fiscal year 2014, the TSA collected a whopping $675,000 in loose change across U.S. airports. That’s more than ever before – in 2008, “just” $383,413.79 was claimed. Which airport is collecting the most money from complacent passengers? John F. Kennedy International in New York City is in the lead, collecting $42,550 in change in 2014. Los Angeles International comes second with $41,506.64 while San Francisco International rounds off the top three with $34,889.43.

This chart shows loose change collected at U.S. airports in fiscal year 2014.

You will find more statistics at Statista