DALLAS, TX – Just in time for the busy holiday season, Southwest Airlines announced today the airline will officially join the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) expedited screening program known as TSA Pre Checkโข. Beginning immediately, select Rapid Rewards Customers will be able to use dedicated security checkpoint lanes for TSA Pre Checkโข benefits. The expedited screening process allows Customers to leave on shoes, light outerwear, and belts as well as keep laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their bags.
“We carry more Customers in the U.S. than any other airline, and they are going to love the benefits of TSA Pre Checkโข,” said Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chairman of the Board. “TSA Pre Checkโข is convenient, it saves Customers time, and it enhances the overall Customer Experienceโsomething we are always striving to do at Southwest Airlines.”
Select Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Members will be invited to opt in to the TSA Pre Checkโข program. They were chosen through a process where the criteria was established by TSA. Passengers who are already enrolled in other trusted traveler programs, such as Global Entry, will be able to use their Known Traveler Number (KTN) when booking flights on southwest.com. Those selected for TSA Pre Checkโข, will see “TSA PRE” printed on their boarding passes. This is the indication that they are eligible for TSA Pre Checkโข expedited screening.
The TSA is rolling out TSA Pre Checkโข lanes at airports across the country. Currently, 100 U.S. airports have established TSA Pre Checkโข lanes. The highly popular program is an intelligence-driven, risk-based approach to security focusing on pre-screening passengers who volunteer to participate in the program.
“Working with Southwest Airlines to offer TSA Pre Checkโข underscores our commitment to increase the number of Americans eligible for expedited screening, while protecting the traveling public,” said John S. Pistole, TSA Administrator. “Expanding TSA Pre Checkโข to additional carriers and airports gives us the opportunity to provide the most effective security in the most efficient way possible.”