New eGates at U.S. Airports Set to Streamline Passenger Screening
Several airports in the United States are set to introduce new electronic gates, known as eGates, designed to expedite the verification of passenger information. The announcement came from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which stated that this initiative aims to enhance the overall traveler experience.
Currently, the eGates will be implemented at a limited number of airports as part of a public-private partnership. These electronic gates will begin to appear at TSA checkpoints, allowing for a more efficient and secure identification process. According to the TSA, the eGates enable the automatic comparison of traveler biometrics with their identity documents and boarding passes, minimizing the need for human operators. This technological advancement comes at no cost to U.S. taxpayers, as it is being piloted by CLEAR, a private company participating in the TSA’s Registered Traveler Program.
Airports Scheduled to Implement eGates
The inaugural deployment of CLEAR eGates took place at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Following this, installations are expected at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport later in August 2023.
The new system in Atlanta is currently accessible to members enrolled in the CLEAR+ pilot program. This program allows participants to utilize dedicated CLEAR lanes at specific TSA checkpoints, effectively bypassing traditional screening processes. With an anticipated increase in international travelers due to events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the introduction of these eGates aims to facilitate smoother airport operations.
Membership Costs and Screening Policies
While the eGates present a promising solution for faster processing, access is not universal. The CLEAR+ membership costs $209 per year per traveler, although discounted family plans are available.
In addition to the eGates, the TSA has also updated its policies regarding shoe removal during domestic flights. The previous requirement, in place for nearly two decades, has been lifted, although passengers may still be asked to remove their shoes if an alarm is triggered during screening.
In July 2023, the TSA highlighted ongoing efforts to eliminate redundant passenger checks for international flights. This initiative is in its early stages, currently involving major U.S. airlines such as American Airlines and Delta, which have partnered with the TSA to pilot a new protocol originating from London’s Heathrow International Airport.
The introduction of eGates and the revision of screening policies represent significant steps towards improving the efficiency and security of air travel in the United States. As the travel landscape evolves, these changes may help accommodate the growing number of passengers expected in the coming years.
