The airport security process just got a little faster for members of American Airlines’ AAdvantage loyalty program.
The carrier announced on Thursday that it would be adding Touchless ID screening options to its TSA checkpoints at a handful of United States airports. Touchless ID allows passengers who are enrolled in both TSA PreCheck and the AAdvantage program to use a facial recognition scan at the security checkpoint, instead of presenting a traditional ID and boarding pass.
Eligible passengers simply step in front of the camera for their facial scan without needing to present any additional documents. The process is a speedier option, usually only taking a few moments. “After an identity match compares a customer’s image to photos they previously provided to the government, such as those in a passport, Global Entry or a visa card, the customer will be able to move through security faster with ease,” the airline says.
The technology is now available at four U.S. airports, including Washington National Airport (DCA), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).
The facial scan is voluntary and is meant to be a more streamlined option for travelers. Passengers who are wary of facial recognition or have privacy concerns can proceed through the traditional PreCheck line or regular TSA line.
AAdvantage members will be prompted to confirm their eligibility and opt in to the new technology by providing their AAdvantage number, passport information, and Known Traveler Number (KTN) associated with their TSA PreCheck account. Customers who are opted in can still choose to opt out and use their regular ID at any time.
American plans to bring Touchless ID to more airports in the near future. “We look forward to it becoming available to even more customers in the coming months,” said Heather Garboden, American’s chief customer officer. The airline will focus on expanding the technology first at its hubs, followed by other airports within its system.
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