Ed Kelly, Cargo Manager at TSA, Dies

Edward J. Kelly, the head of the U.S. Transportation Security Administration’s cargo division, died on Friday on complications from pneumonia.

The TSA said he had been hospitalized for the last three weeks.

A longtime freight industry executive, Kelly had led TSA’s cargo security branch as general manager since September 2006. He oversaw a staff of more than 50 at the agency’s Washington headquarters as the TSA worked to implement tough new security regulations that are still being phased in across the air cargo industry.

Industry officials said his strong experience and direction of the organization helped quiet mounting frustration among carriers and shippers about TSA actions many viewed as impractical and poorly informed about cargo operations.

“Ed had worked tirelessly developing programs to implement the 9/11 Act mandate for screening of air cargo on passenger aircraft,” Airports Council International-North America said in a statement. “His efforts have significantly enhanced the level of air cargo security.”

Kelly had worked at freight operator Emery Worldwide, where was a vice president, controller and treasure before the company was sold toUPS. He later worked as a consultant to UPS Supply Chain Solutions, which took in the Emery business.

A native of Scranton, Pa., he held a bachelor of science degree from the University of Scranton.