The Transportation Security Administration’s new screening program, PreCheck, allows passengers to get through airport security without having to remove shoes, belts and even some jackets. The program also allows for laptops and small liquids to remain in carry-on luggage. PreCheck is currently in 40 airports across the country and will be in 60 new airports by the end of the year. However, right now it is only frequent flier VIPs and trusted travelers of U.S. Customs and Border Protection who are able to use the program. Sometime soon, TSA will release an application program where, for an $85 fee, you can use PreCheck, and simply verify your identity and fingerprints when you arrive at the airport. Currently, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Virgin America are participating in the program, and Southwest will join soon.
“As TSA continues to move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to transportation security, we are looking for more opportunities to provide the most effective security in the most efficient way possible,” TSA Administrator John Pistole says. TSA has been making an ongoing effort to effectively pinpoint risks, and allow those who clearly do not pose a threat to move through the security process more quickly.
