TSA PreCheck is already one of the best ways to get through airport security faster, but the federal government is testing a new system that could make the process even more seamless.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced Wednesday it is piloting a new self-service screening for passengers with TSA PreCheck at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas beginning March 11.
TSA is calling the PreCheck self-service lanes at LAS the “Innovation Checkpoint.” After a TSA officer checks their documents as normal, passengers will proceed to the self-service security screening, a TSA spokesperson said. Then, they'll follow step-by-step instructions on a video monitor to complete nearly the entire screening themselves and at their own pace, with minimal interference from TSA officers. However, TSA officers will still be available for assistance as needed.
The Innovation Checkpoint will only be open from 5 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. during the pilot. Outside that time, passengers will proceed through the usual PreCheck screening lanes.
According to a news release, this self-service technology has been in the works for several years.
“We are constantly looking at innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience, while also improving security,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a statement. “This self-service prototype allows our trusted travelers to complete the screening process at their own pace.”
In addition to the data collected by the self-service screening system, TSA will also collect feedback from passengers who participate in the pilot.
TSA did not say how long the trial period for this system at LAS will last.
Don't expect to see this new technology at more airports anytime soon. The federal government will “carefully study the results of this assessment” before determining whether to implement it at other airports, the news release said.
Read next: Why TSA PreCheck Isn't Showing Up on Your Boarding Pass
All images courtesy of the Transportation Security Administration
