Air Force Automated Travel System

Pursuant to an Air Force request, GAO reviewed the operation of the automated travel system (FASTravel) at Langley Air Force Base and the Pentagon, focusing on: (1) the acceptability of electronic travel records in lieu of paper travel records; (2) whether the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) could rely on externally-generated electronic records to record obligations and generate disbursements; and (3) how the system would affect GAO travel record retention requirements. GAO noted that: (1) the Air Force could conduct a limited test of its FASTravel system; (2) although electronic records and signatures can replace paper documents, the system contains several internal control weaknesses in its electronic signature techniques; (3) the system's electronic signature validation processes are inadequate; (4) DFAS could rely on electronic travel records if adequate internal controls are implemented; (5) the FASTravel system would require individual travelers to retain travel receipts at their place of employment for a specific period of time; and (6) Air Force travelers will need detailed guidance on the new record retention policies and training on their record retention responsibilities.