Travel News: TSA PreCheck & Expedited Screening

TSA has expanded its Touchless ID program, which uses facial recognition technology to streamline identity verification.  Here are the headlines:

Key Highlights (as of March 2026):

• Available at 60+ U.S. airports
• Allows passengers to skip physical ID checks
• Designed to reduce time spent at identity verification points

Major Airports with Touchless ID: Includes key hubs such as ATL, JFK, LAX, ORD, DFW, DEN, SEA, SFO, and many others, along with dozens of regional airports.

How Travelers Can Use TSA Touchless ID:

1. Enroll or Update Profile: Add Known Traveler Number (KTN) and passport information to airline profile.
2. Confirm Eligibility: Look for the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID indicator on boarding pass.
3. Use Designated Lane: Proceed through facial recognition checkpoint for identity verification.
4. Important Reminder: Travelers should still carry a valid, Real ID-compliant physical ID.

Participating Airlines and How to Enroll:

Alaska Airlines

1. Log in to your Mileage Plan account on the website or app.
2. Add your KTN (Known Traveler Number) and valid passport information to your profile.
3. Navigate to the “Travel Documents” tab.
4. Select “Add TSA PreCheck Touchless ID” to enroll.

American Airlines

1. Log in to your AAdvantage account via the app or website.
2. Go to the “Information and password” section.
3. Save your KTN and passport info to your rewards profile.
4. Check the box for “TSA PreCheck Touchless ID” and save your changes. Note: You must re-enroll every 12 months.

Delta Air Lines (Digital ID)

1. Log in to your SkyMiles profile on the Fly Delta app or com.
2. Ensure your passport details and KTN are stored in your profile.
3. In your profile settings (often under “Secure Traveler”), toggle on the option for “Digital ID” or “Touchless ID”.
4. You may also be prompted to opt in during the mobile check-in process.

Southwest Airlines

1. Log in to your Rapid Rewards account specifically in the Southwest app.
2. Select “TSA PreCheck Touchless ID” from your account settings.
3. Scan your passport using your phone and enter your KTN.
4. Confirm the opt-in to complete enrollment.

United Airlines

1. Log in to your MileagePlus account using the United app.
2. Go to Account Settings and find the “TSA PreCheck and travel documents” page.
3. Add your KTN and passport info.
4. Select to opt in to Touchless ID on that same page before you check in for your flight.

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