Friday, September 20, 2013

TSA Reduces Security and Shortens Lines

On September 4th, the Transportation Security Administration announced that they plan to expand the PreCheck program to another sixty airports within the duration of this year. These additional sixty airports will more than double the amount of locations that offer the PreCheck program. The TSA usually selects airports that are midsize, one of which is our local San Diego International Airport as well as Oakland International Airport and Portland International Airport, and Houston International Airport. An updated list of Airports for PreCheck locations is available at tsa.gov, as well as a list of upcoming Airports for the program.

For Passengers that are approved for the PreCheck Program, getting through the TSA lines is much less time and effort than the traditionally TSA check. Passengers are not required to remove their shoes, jackets and belts, and they are permitted to leave laptops and liquids in their bags. TSA officers are able to scan the passengers boarding pass in order to determine who is in the program. At this point in time, the PreCheck program is only available to top-level frequent flyers identified by participating airlines and members of trusted-traveler programs that are offered by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. The TSA is in the works to begin a process where travelers can apply online to be admitted to the PreCheck program. The website for all information about the program as well as where the application will be is tsa.gov.