More than 1.5 million travelers are now enrolled in TSA PreCheck, its voluntary trusted traveler program, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported yesterday. TSA attributes the milestone to the opening of more than 330 application centers nationwide -- including 33 at airports -- where travelers who apply online can conclude their enrollment by providing fingerprints and identification.
"Through our intelligence-driven, risk-based approach to aviation security we can adapt and stay ahead of evolving threats," TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger said in a statement. "We are pleased to announce this milestone as growing the trusted traveler population allows us to focus on high-risk, unknown passengers. The popularity of TSA PreCheck among travelers is evident in the robust enrollment rates we've experienced since the inception of the program."
TSA PreCheck allows eligible fliers who pass a background check in advance of flying to pass more quickly through security checkpoints by utilizing an expedited screening lane that does not require passengers to remove their shoes, belts, coats, laptops, or carry-on toiletries.
In order to enroll in PreCheck, travelers previously had to be members of an airline's frequent flier program, or of a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) trusted traveler program, such as Global Entry, SENTRI or NEXUS. Since 2013, however, U.S. citizens have been able to enroll in PreCheck directly by applying online, then visiting an enrollment site. The enrollment fee is $85 for a five-year membership. Once approved, travelers receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) and the opportunity to go through TSA PreCheck lanes at security checkpoints at participating airports.
Travelers flying on 12 participating airlines are eligible: Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, OneJet, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways, and Virgin America.
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