Travelers frustrated by long security lines at airports may soon find a way to breeze through a special checkpoint with far less scrutiny. The TSA has announced plans to try a "trusted traveler" program at a few airports and airlines starting this fall, and once functionally ready the program would roll out to other airports and airlines. Not only will a program of this type help reduce waiting time for passengers lucky enough to qualify, but the removal of even a few passengers to other lines should help alleviate the time constraints place on individuals in the normal security line. Still, the program comes with a few questions?
How do I qualify as a "trusted traveler?"Members of Customs and Border Control programs, like NEXUS and SENTRI, will be qualified to join. Plus, airlines will have to contact travelers they identify as frequent travelers to join the program. As of the moment, no open enrollment is planned, and travelers must wait to find out if they qualify.
What airports and airlines will be part of the roll out?
Initially, American Airlines passengers out of Dallas and Miami will qualify, and Delta travelers out of Atlanta and Detroit will also be part of the roll out. Once the details are worked out in functionality and procedures the program will be rolled out to other airlines.
What kind of information will need to be supplied to qualify and how much will it cost?
Details are still a bit sketchy on what details need to be provided to the TSA to qualify as a "trusted traveler," and costs were not announced either. The overwhelming majority of travelers want a program of this kind, and survey indicated that many are willing to pay $150 a year for the service.
What kind of perks will be provided?
The main perk will be a minimized trip through the security checkpoint, which is a major advantage for any frequent traveler. While rumors are floating around about keeping shoes on and going through a different type of scanner, passengers in the program would still be subject to random screens and searches.
What kind of time frame until every airport is involved?
Unfortunately, no firm timelines have been released about the specific roll out plans of the program. Existing programs may be the model for an airline based "trusted traveler" program, but there are still a lot of concerns that need to be addressed. The TSA has been talking about this program since early in the year, so passengers should expect a slow calculated roll out.
Jason Gallagher is a former travel professional and long-time Pennsylvania resident. These experiences give him a first-hand look at developing situations in the state and everything included in the travel industry from technology to trends.
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