ASTA to Host TSA PreCheck Webinar August 7

travel agentASTA reports it commended the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for opening a new avenue into its popular “PreCheck” airport screening program. The program will help TSA meet its goal of processing 25 percent of individual travelers through expedited screening by the end of the year, ASTA said.

“A rational airport security system is essential to keeping Americans flying, and so we appreciate TSA’s further streamlining of the system through PreCheck expansion,” said Zane Kerby, ASTA president and CEO. “ASTA stands ready to work with TSA and our other federal partners to develop a true risk-based system that will strengthen the system while encouraging consumers to travel more.”

Starting later this year U.S. citizens will be able to apply for PreCheck online and visit an enrollment site to provide identification and fingerprints, ASTA notes.

 TSA will start the program at two initial enrollment sites – Washington Dulles International Airport and Indianapolis International Airport – with plans to expand to additional enrollment sites nationwide. 

The PreCheck application program requires a background check, fingerprints and an anticipated enrollment fee of $85 for a five-year membership. Once approved, travelers will receive a Known Traveler Number and the opportunity to go through PreCheck lanes at security checkpoints at participating airports. 

Previously, to be eligible for PreCheck, travelers had to opt-in through an airline’s frequent flier program, or be enrolled in one of Customs and Border Protection’s Global Entry, SENTRI or NEXUS Trusted Traveler programs, ASTA notes.

To date, more than 12 million travelers at 40 airports nationwide have already experienced PreCheck, which allows travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belt, keep their laptop in its case and their 3-1-1 compliant liquids/gels bag in a carry-on in select screening lanes.

Those interested in learning more are encouraged to register for an August 7 webinar ASTA is hosting where agents can learn from TSA the various ways  clients can enroll in PreCheck and other trusted traveler programs. The webinar will review where the program is  being implemented and when, and the steps that have to take through the GDSs and online booking tools to guarantee clients a hassle-free flying experience.

Visit www.asta.org