The Transportation Security Administration has made a massive upgrade to its TSA PreCheck program in 15 airports across America, which will make the security process much faster.
TSA PreCheck is a paid service for ‘low-risk travelers’ that offers ‘a smoother experience at the airport security checkpoint,’ per its website.
Once you’re approved, it allows you to use a separate security line at the airport that’s usually much shorter; it also comes with a slew of perks like not having to remove belts or light jackets and keeping laptops and liquids in carry-on bags.
Now, the administration has announced that it has added a new feature in certain airports for travelers with PreCheck that will speed up the process even more.
Before, those with PreCheck had to pull up their boarding pass and show that it had the PreCheck indicator on it before entering the line.
But now, in select airports, travelers with PreCheck won’t have to show anything except for their face, making for a seamless and speedy experience.
Called TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, it’s designed to ‘enhance the security screening process.’
It uses ‘facial comparison technology for faster, more efficient identity verification,’ explains TSA’s website.
The TSA has made a massive upgrade to its TSA PreCheck program in 15 airports across America, which will make the security process much faster (stock image)
Before, those with PreCheck had to pull up their boarding pass and show that it had the PreCheck indicator on it before entering the line (stock image)
‘Enrolled travelers with participating airlines can move through dedicated lanes with ease, enjoying a smoother and more convenient airport experience – an effortless way to start your travels,’ the administration said.
‘When your face is all you need to verify your identity, there’s no fumbling with physical documents.’
Interested passengers must opt-in with participating airlines, which includes American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.
To see if you’re eligible, enter your Known Traveler Number (KTN) into your flight reservation, as well as your valid passport number, then select ‘opt in’ in your profile or at airline check-in.
It uses ‘biometric cameras’ to identify you, and the TSA vowed that ‘images are not used for law enforcement, surveillance, nor shared with other entities.’
‘Your photo and personal data are deleted within 24-hours of your scheduled flight departure,’ it said.
The TSA added, ‘Even those who opt-in to the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program must carry a physical ID and present it if asked by a TSA officer.’
Participating airports so far are located in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York City, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, D.C.
But now, in select airports, travelers with PreCheck won’t have to show anything except for their face, making for a seamless and speedy experience (stock image)
It uses ‘facial comparison technology for faster, more efficient identity verification,’ explains TSA’s website (stock image)
It comes weeks after the TSA announced it was now accepting a new, free form of identification through mobile apps, making airport security checks faster for all travelers.
More than 250 airports across the US have begun accepting digital IDs stored on smartphones, per its website.
This new system allows passengers to use state-issued digital driver’s licenses or ID cards via their phone’s wallet app, such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet, as an accepted form of identification at TSA checkpoints.
Travelers simply present their phone with the digital ID at the TSA checkpoint, where biometric technology can compare their live image to the ID to verify their identity without the need for a physical card.
This touchless approach is designed to enhance security while improving passenger flow and privacy.
It also recently launched a new program called Families on the Fly at Orlando International Airport and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, which offers dedicated security lanes for families with children aged 12 and under.
‘We understand that air travel can be challenging, especially for parents managing strollers, diaper bags, and young kids,’ said TSA Federal Security Director for Orlando Pete Garcia, per Fox News Orlando.
‘This program goes beyond convenience; it’s about addressing the unique needs of traveling families to provide a smoother, more supportive experience at our security checkpoints.’
