American Airlines just made getting through Dallas Fort Worth International Airport a little easier for passengers with TSA PreCheck.
The airline has launched a new program that uses facial recognition at TSA security checkpoints at the airport. Passengers only need their phone with the American Airlines app to get through the line quickly using mobile identification.
“We’re committed to making our customers’ journeys easier, and airport waypoints provide significant opportunities for innovation,” Julie Rath, American’s vice president of customer experience, loyalty, and marketing, said in a release.
The service is available at every TSA PreCheck location at the Dallas airport. The airline plans to add it in the near future at Miami, Phoenix, and Washington’s Reagan International.
“By simplifying the identity verification process and other points at the airport, we’re helping our customers exchange stress for convenience and saved time, and propelling the travel industry further along the path to a truly seamless customer experience,” Rath said.
How Does It Work?
Before traveling, customers with TSA PreCheck need to download the Airside Digital Identity app on their mobile device. They then take a photo of their face, scan their driver’s license or passport with the app, and enter their AAdvantage number.
The app then verifies the customer’s information by comparing it to their state DMV records or the passport’s embedded chip, then it stores the information in the app.
When flying, customers present a QR code and their American Airlines mobile ID to TSA and look into a camera at the checkpoint. TSA’s computer compares the image against the mobile ID, with the entire process taking less than 5 seconds.
Customers worried about security may be put at ease knowing that TSA erases the digital ID from its checkpoint after verification.
TSA officials are on board with the technology since it saves time for their officers and keeps checkpoint lines moving quickly.
“We’re thankful for our stakeholders’ collaboration and support in driving the industry forward to offer innovative security checkpoint solutions to help customers safely and securely travel,” said Kriste Jordan-Smith, a TSA director at the Dallas airport. “We’ll continue to take an agile approach to developing a stress-free and secure traveling experience for TSA PreCheck passengers, and look forward to expanding this technology in the future.”
The new technology comes after the airline tested digital ID for touchless bag drop and entry to the Admirals Club at the Dallas airport. Those systems also use facial recognition.
American expects to add similar technology in the near future at kiosks, bag checks, and domestic boarding gates.
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