TSA to End Long Security Lines--For a Few
With all the criticism the TSA has faced in recent weeks, it announced a program Thursday that -- in theory -- deserves praise from business travelers: it launched a "known-traveler" program for frequent flyers.
The known-traveler program means if you subject yourself to a background check, you'll be able to go through a different security line, not have to remove your shoes, take your laptop out, and avoid other frequent-flyer annoyances.
Many of us remember the original Clear program -- a privately funded trusted traveler program in operation at a number of airports when it failed about two years ago. The reason? It was unde-rcapitalized, the TSA was never really supportive of it, and it wasn't in every airport. The company has since been restarted.
Under the current proposed TSA-backed trusted traveler program, the pilot program only applies to some travelers, on two airlines (American and Delta) and only at some airports.
You can't apply to the program; for the moment, membership has to be conferred upon you. It will also apply to U.S. citizens who are part of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's "Trusted Traveler" programs, which includes Global Entry, SENTRI, and NEXUS participants.
if you're a mega frequent flyer on American or Delta, you could be invited to opt in to the system. That is, if you're home based at Atlanta, Miami, Dallas or Detroit airports.
Short-Term Predictions
- Don't call them...they'll call you. But don't expect the call anytime soon. There is no news on how the first group of frequent flyers will be selected for the program, other than the airports that are participating.
- It won't be a widespread program. At least not anytime soon. Each airport design is different, and the TSA may have to adjust the special lines to fit the physical space within which they are working.
- Fast tracked screening will have limits. Even travelers in this program may go through additional screening. My suspicion is that, much like the Clear program, no matter how segregated or fast the new known traveler security lines may be, the TSA will, of course, always reserve the right for secondary screening.
Related:
- TSA's Latest Security Troubles: Bogus Boarding Pass
- Why Airports Have Had 25,000 Breaches since 2001
- Airports on "High Alert," Yet Stun Gun Found on Plane
