Touchless Identification Implemented by American Airlines for TSA PreCheck Travelers
American Airlines introduces TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, a novel biometric identification method for eligible travelers. This service allows qualified passengers to swiftly move through select TSA PreCheck lanes, using facial recognition technology instead of traditional boarding passes or IDs. The initiative is currently available at four major airports – Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), LaGuardia (LGA), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL), and Salt Lake City International (SLC) with plans to expand to additional hubs.
To utilize this service, passengers must be AAdvantage members, have a Known Traveler Number, a valid passport, and opt-in via their AAdvantage profile or the American Airlines app. Children under 18 can benefit from the Touchless ID lane when accompanied by an eligible adult, provided they present their boarding pass.
The expedited security program, previously limited to participating U.S. airports and most international trips, seeks to simplify the screening process for qualifying travelers. To participate, applicants must apply for and receive approval from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Qualified travelers utilizing TSA PreCheck® typically enjoy a more efficient security process, passing through a dedicated lane that allows them to retain shoes, jackets, belts, and laptops inside their bags. TSA PreCheck® is also accessible for those enrolled in a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler program, such as Global Entry, SENTRI, or NEXUS.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive Mastercard® card members can secure application fee credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, up to $120 every four years. To access these credits, the application fee must be charged to the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive Mastercard®.
While applying directly through TSA grants passengers a Known Traveler Number (KTN), those registered with a CBP program receive a 9-digit PASS ID, which serves as the same identification for all CBP programs. Ensuring that the KTN or PASS ID is updated in the AAdvantage® account before travel ensures accurate information for every trip. Non-AAdvantage® members must add the KTN or PASS ID to each reservation during the booking process. For those unable to locate their KTN or PASS ID, the necessary numbers can be retrieved online.
Similar biometric identification services have been implemented by competing airlines: Delta Air Lines and United have already rolled out their digital ID programs, with Delta initiating this option earlier. While American Airlines was slightly late to implement this technology, its streamlined process for eligible AAdvantage members brings it on par with market leaders such as Delta Air Lines and United Airlines.
- To enjoy a more efficient booking process and access the Touchless ID service, it's recommended that American Airlines AAdvantage members add their Known Traveler Number (KTN) or PASS ID to their reservations during the booking process.
- Enrolling in TSA PreCheck® not only simplifies the security process for travelers but also grants them access to eco-friendly travel and lifestyle benefits, such as the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive Mastercard® application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, up to $120 every four years.
- With the implementing of technology-driven reservation systems like Touchless ID, travelers can now make travel reservations with greater ease and convenience, taking advantage of faster security clearance and time-saving benefits.
- Streamlining the travel experience through biometric identification technology is a significant contribution to the travel industry, with American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines all adopting these initiatives to cater to the growing demand for service efficiency and eco-friendly travel options.
