I posted information from the AP earlier about the TSA's plans to test a program that will improve screening times at airports. (Welcome news to many who abhor waiting in lines at airports.)
Twitter follower Justin Fenwick wrote us saying "Wish I knew what info. they want..."
Good point, Justin!
The Associated Press reports that currently, the TSA has three bits of information on all passengers:
- Your full name,
- Date of birth,
- and Gender
This new program will gather up information from frequent-flier programs:
Frequent-flier programs include more than those three identification fields. For instance, personal information provided in Delta's frequent-flier program includes the traveler's home address, email address or phone number, and preferred language.
TSA officials would not say what screening measures could be avoided for security reasons.
In a press release, TSA officials say the pilot program is expected to start this fall.
During the first phase of testing, certain frequent fliers and certain members of CBP's (Customs and Border Protection) Trusted Traveler programs, including members of Global Entry, SENTRI, and NEXUS, who are U.S. citizens will be eligible to participate in this pilot, which could qualify them for expedited screening at select checkpoints at certain airports.
They expect around 5,000 to 8,000 passengers to participate in the initial program.
At Detroit Metropolitan airport, officials say certain frequent fliers from Delta Air Lines and certain members of CBP’s Trusted Traveler programs who are U.S. citizens and who are also flying on Delta will be eligible to participate in the pilot.
Officials say they plan to expand the pilot program to other airlines "once operationally ready."
