LATAM Airlines Group and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced the incorporation of the carrier to TSA’s PreCheck Program. This will allow LATAM’s passengers to have a quicker security process throughout 200 US airports, said the airline in a statement.
What’s TSA’s PreCheck Program?
The TSA PreCheck Program provides expedited security screening benefits for flights departing from US Airports. It’s one of many initiatives launched by the US government on this topic. Others are Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI.
For instance, Global Entry provides the TSA PreCheck benefits plus expedited customs screening for international air travelers when entering the US. Each has a cost: US$85 for PreCheck and US$100 for Global Entry.
“SA PreCheck is an expedited screening program that enables low-risk travelers to enjoy a smart and efficient screening experience at more than 200 U.S. airports,” said TSA in a statement.
Over 80 airlines participate with TSA on the PreCheck Program. This includes the likes of Aeromexico, Avianca, Azul, Copa, Viva Aerobus, and of course, LATAM in Latin America.
Passengers won’t be required to remove their shoes, belts, and light jackets. They can also carry their laptops and liquids without taking them out of their bags in the security areas, added the airline.
Who can use the TSA PreCheck?
Only US citizens and legal residents in this country are allowed to file for a TSA PreCheck, according to LATAM. The permit has a cost of US$85 and lasts five years.
Members of the other three programs are also eligible, said the carrier, as well as members of the US Force Air, Coast Guard, and National Guard. Last year, TSA expanded its list for PreCheck eligible passengers. Increasing the list immediately benefited nearly 3.5 million people, said TSA Executive Assistant Administrator for Operations Support Stacey Fitzmaurice.
What changes now for LATAM customers?
LATAM and TSA launched their agreement on March 24. Starting on that day, LATAM’s travelers that own membership with PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI can give their “Known Traveler Number” while making a reservation.
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The system will automatically create a boarding pass with an indicator which could be TSAPRECHK, TSA PRE, or TSA Pre✓®. Then, passengers will be able to go through exclusive lines and have a smoother, faster experience through US airports.
A brief history of TSA’s PreCheck
TSA launched the program in December 2013. Since it has had more than 400 enrollment centers in every corner of the United States.
One year ago, TSA PreCheck reached a milestone with 10 million members. Between March 2019 and February 2020, TSA registered an 18% increase in new memberships compared to the year prior.
David Pekoske, TSA Administrator, said,
“The more individuals who are enrolled in TSA PreCheck, the more we can focus resources on individuals who more likely pose a risk to aviation security. It’s better security and a better experience for travelers.”
Are you a member of TSA PreCheck or want to be? Let us know in the comments.
