Spirit Joins TSA Precheck Program

by Rich Thomaselli
Last updated: 11:45 AM ET, Thu January 26, 2017

Spirit Airlines is joining the in-crowd.

Spirit this morning became the 25th airline to participate in the U.S. Transportation Security Administration's TSAPrecheck® program.

For an airline that enplaned 21 million passengers in 2016-10th most among North America-based carriers-it was just a matter of time. Every one of the nine airlines ahead of Spirit in terms of enplanements was already participating in TSA Precheck, an expedited screening program that enables trusted travelers to bypass traditional security checkpoints at more than 180 U.S. airports.

With Spirit also continuing to add destinations in addition to customers, it's a no-brainer to be involved.

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TSAPrecheck travelers are not required to remove shoes, 3-1-1 compliant liquids, laptops, light outerwear or belts. Enrollment is something of a process - applicants must be approved by the TSA after filling out forms and conducting an in-person interview - but the $85 cost is for five years.

"We are thrilled to give our customers options for a more efficient and expedited security screening experience," John Bendoraitis, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of Spirit Airlines, said in a statement. "Between TSAPrecheck and Shortcut Security, Spirit is committed to providing a fast, safe and seamless experience for our customers, all while saving them money to spend at their final destinations."

Shortcut Security is Spirit's proprietary alternative to skip the security checkpoint line at select airports. Customers can add Shortcut Security to their reservation during the online booking process or purchase at participating airports.

Here is a list of all participating airlines in the Precheck program:

Aeromexico

Air Canada

Alaska Airlines

Allegiant Air

American Airlines

Aruba Airlines

Avianca

Cape Air

Delta Air Lines

Emirates

Etihad Airways