Biometric screening at airports, which allows programs like TSA PreCheck to operate to make airport security checkpoints more efficient, is under threat. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) have introduced an FAA amendment that, according to the U.S. Travel Association, would ban the collection of biometric data at airports, effectively rendering obsolete currently-in-place programs travelers use to move through security more quickly.
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A Proposed FAA Amendment Could Drastically Increase TSA Wait Times
TSA PreCheck streamlines airport security by separating pre-vetted, low-risk passengers into dedicated lanes. This allows them to bypass certain procedures that standard security requires, like removing shoes, belts, and light jackets. Additionally, laptops and 3-1-1 liquids can stay in carry-on bags. This significantly reduces screening time, leading to shorter lines for both PreCheck passengers and those in the regular lanes. By expediting the flow of low-risk individuals, TSA PreCheck alleviates congestion and makes the overall security process more efficient for everyone involved.
Eliminating TSA PreCheck would likely cause significant disruptions at airport security checkpoints. Security lines would become significantly longer as everyone, regardless of risk level, undergoes the same thorough screening process (no more keeping those shoes on). This would lead to increased passenger frustration, missed flights, and potentially, higher security costs due to the need for more personnel. Additionally, the lack of PreCheck lanes would force all passengers to not only remove shoes, but also belts and liquids, further slowing down the process.
The U.S. Travel Association has launched a letter-writing campaign to senators in hopes of preventing the proposed amendment from taking effect. You can join the campaign by adding your name to the pre-written letter and sending it through the association’s website. The letter will be sent to your representatives in the US Senate urging them to reject the proposal. 