Based on its early success, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will expand its express security checkpoint program to three additional airports, it announced last week.
The voluntary "trusted traveler" program, known as TSA PreCheck, allows eligible fliers who pass a background check in advance of flying to pass more quickly through security checkpoints thanks to a special expedited screening lane that does not require passengers to remove their shoes, belts, coats, laptops or carry-on toiletries.
Launched as a pilot program in October at four U.S. airports — Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County, Dallas/Fort Worth International and Miami International airports — TSA PreCheck will now be expanded to Las Vegas' McCarran International Airport, which launched PreCheck on Dec. 14, as well as Los Angeles International and Minneapolis-St. Paul International airports, both of which will begin offering the program in early 2012.
Along with more airports, PreCheck will also be available to more passengers: Originally, the program was open only to select frequent fliers on Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, as well as members of other trusted traveler programs, such as Global Entry, SENTRI and NEXUS. Next year, however, US Airways and United also will join the fray, with timing and participating airports to be announced at a later date.
"I am encouraged by the positive passenger feedback and early results from this risk-based security initiative, and look forward to working with our airline and airport partners as we continue expanding and testing this concept," said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole. "This system enables our officers to expedite the screening process for passengers we know the most about, while better focusing their efforts on higher-risk and unknown passengers. As we continue to implement a system with multiple layers of security to keep the traveling public safe, we are dedicated to providing the most effective security in the most efficient way."