The Transportation Security Administration’s TSA Pre program has reached a milestone with more than five million travelers enrolled. TSA Pre, which opened its first application center in December 2013, now has more than 390 application centers across the USA, including locations at 44 airports.
TSA Pre is a screening program that enables low-risk travelers to quickly pass through security with an efficient screening experience. Travelers using the TSA Pre lane do not need to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops or 3-1-1 liquids from their carry-on bags as they are known frequent travelers.
US citizens and lawful permanent residents may apply for the program for US$85 for five years, or US$17 per year. Once approved, travelers will receive a ‘known traveler number’ and can then utilize the special lanes at select security checkpoints when flying on any of the 37 participating airlines, which include Delta, JetBlue and Air Canada.
Huban Gowadia, TSA acting administrator, said, “By growing the trusted traveler population, we help our officers focus on potential threats, which strengthens the security screening process and ultimately provides better security for all travelers.
“We will continue our efforts to further expand the TSA Pre program, with the ultimate goal of providing the most effective security in the most efficient way.”
