President Barack Obama’s pick to lead the Transportation Security Administration says he is as concerned as lawmakers about reports of widespread security gaps at airports.

Coast Guard Vice Adm. Peter Neffenger says he will identify those gaps and close them if he is confirmed by the Senate. Neffenger was testifying Wednesday before the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee.

Neffenger’s confirmation hearing comes amid questions about TSA’s ability to properly secure airports.

Last week it was revealed that auditors from the Homeland Security Department’s inspector general were able to sneak mock explosives, weapons and other items through TSA security checkpoints in 67 out of 70 times tries. Another report disclosed that 73 airport workers with unspecified ties to terrorism were allowed to work in secure areas.

(AP)