TSA Promises Faster Security and Better Journeys

Our friends at American Airlines have finally decided to join the 21st century and make air travel a little less painful for us patriotic Americans. Let’s dive into their latest attempt to streamline the TSA screening process and see if it’s worth getting excited about or if it’s just another corporate gimmick.

Automated Tags for Mobility Devices

American Airlines has become the first U.S. airline to launch an automated tag system for mobility devices. Developed in-house by their Technology team, these tags are used in airports where American and its regional partners operate. The new tags replace manual tags and include customer- and device-specific data such as itineraries, delivery points, device weight, battery type, and items removed and taken on board.

This automation allows for easier sharing of device information across frontline team members’ applications, providing more accurate and consistent information. As a result, American Airlines has improved its handling rate for mobility devices by nearly 13% from the first half of 2023 to the first half of 2024.

Collaboration with TSA for Enhanced Security Screening

TSA and American Airlines are collaborating to test new screening technology at several U.S. airports. Automated security screening lanes will be tested at Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, and Miami international airports. These lanes aim to reduce security screening time by approximately 30%.

Additionally, computed tomography (CT) scanners will be tested at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in Arizona. This technology, currently used for checked bags, will be piloted for carry-on bags, potentially allowing passengers to keep liquids, gels, aerosols, and laptops in their bags during screening.

“We are collaborating with our partners in the airline industry on developing the next generation of screening technology and other initiatives that will continue to enhance aviation security and improve the customer experience,” said TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger.

Mobile ID for TSA PreCheck® Members

American Airlines has launched a Mobile ID feature for TSA PreCheck® members, allowing travelers to use facial recognition for a seamless and touchless travel experience. The service is initially available at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and will expand to other airports like Miami International Airport (MIA), Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), and Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA).

Customers can create their Mobile ID using their TSA PreCheck® membership, AAdvantage® number, and either a driver’s license or U.S. passport. The process involves downloading the Airside Digital Identity App, taking a photo, scanning a driver’s license or passport, and entering the AAdvantage number.

At TSA PreCheck checkpoints, customers present a QR code and look into a camera for identity verification, which takes less than five seconds. TSA erases the encrypted digital ID after verification, and customers retain their digital ID for future use.

Well, there you have it, folks. American Airlines is finally dragging itself into the modern age with these new innovations. While it’s a step in the right direction, let’s hope they don’t forget the importance of good old-fashioned customer service amidst all this newfangled technology. Only time will tell if these changes will make air travel great again or if we’ll still be left longing for the golden age of aviation.