Ruth Haines
Nobody likes waiting in long lines at the airport. Fortunately, there are several ways to skip or expedite the process, depending on your preferences and budget. From free programs like LAX Fast Lane and DFW Fast Pass, which allow travellers to schedule their security checks, to purchasing priority status or upgrading your seat, there are various options to beat the queue. Additionally, enrolling in trusted traveller programs such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry can grant expedited security lane access at select airports. For those seeking the ultimate convenience, consider investing in a Clear membership, which offers biometric screening at over 55 airports. With planning and the right tools, you can significantly reduce your wait times at the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Skip the bag-check line | Yes |
| Wait at the baggage claim area | No |
| Carry-on bag meets airline's weight and size restrictions | Yes |
| Travel during off-peak time | Yes |
| Fly in or out of a smaller airport | Yes |
| Upgrade your seat | Yes |
| Join a security clearance program | Yes |
| TSA PreCheck | $78 for 5 years |
| CLEAR | $189 per year |
| Global Entry | $100 for 5 years |
| Fly Business Select Fare | Yes |
| Elite status or credit cards | Yes |
| Check-in online | Yes |
| Print or carry a digital copy of the ticket | Yes |
| Use the mobile app | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
TSA PreCheck membership
TSA PreCheck is a government-run trusted traveller programme that allows members to use expedited security lanes at over 200 US airports. Members can speed through security without removing their laptops, belts, light jackets, shoes, or toiletry liquids. Children aged 17 and under can join an adult with TSA PreCheck when the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the child's boarding pass.
To qualify for TSA PreCheck, you'll need to submit an online application and schedule an in-person appointment that includes a background check and fingerprinting. The cost of a five-year membership is up to $85, depending on where you enrol and the type of enrolment (new or renewal). After approval, you'll receive a Known Traveller Number, which you'll enter whenever you book a flight. This will get you the TSA PreCheck logo on your boarding pass, allowing you to enter the expedited TSA PreCheck line.
TSA PreCheck is not the only option for speeding up your airport experience. Global Entry, CLEAR+, and various airline elite status programmes can also help you skip lines at the airport. Additionally, some airports offer free programmes that allow travellers to schedule their security checks for specific time slots, such as LAX Fast Lane, DFW Fast Pass, and Virtual Line at Newark Airport. These programmes are a great way to avoid long waits at security.
If you're looking to save time at the airport, enrolling in TSA PreCheck or exploring alternative programmes can be a worthwhile investment. However, it's important to consider your travel frequency and specific airport offerings to determine the best option for your needs.
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Global Entry membership
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveller Program. It allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers entering the United States. Global Entry is more powerful than TSA PreCheck, but the application process is also longer and more expensive.
To apply for Global Entry, you must first submit an online application, for which you will likely receive conditional approval. The next step is to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Centre, which is typically found at international U.S. airports. The challenge here is finding appointment availability, so it is recommended to take the first available slot. It is not unusual for appointments to be booked several months in advance. All applicants must undergo a background check and fingerprinting.
A five-year Global Entry membership costs $100 or $120, depending on the source. The extra money for a Global Entry membership might be worth it if you’re planning to travel internationally. Plus, it includes access to TSA PreCheck.
There are other ways to skip the lines at the airport, such as purchasing priority status or upgrading your seat. Many airlines let you check in online up to 24 hours in advance, which may allow you to skip the ticket counter. Some airports also offer free, scheduled security appointment programs, such as LAX Fast Lane and DFW Fast Pass, which allow travellers to skip the line at security.
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Credit card perks
When it comes to credit card perks, one of the most attractive benefits is the ability to skip the long lines at the airport. This is often referred to as expedited airport screening or TSA PreCheck. With tightened airport security, travellers in standard lanes have to remove electronics from carry-on bags for separate screening, while those with TSA PreCheck can leave their electronics in their bags.
Several premium credit cards offer statement credits towards the cost of TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or Nexus when you pay the application fee with your card. Cards like the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card and the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card provide statement credits towards the TSA PreCheck application or renewal fee. The Chase Sapphire Reserve card, an annual-fee premium card, offers access to over 1300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass membership. The Platinum Card from American Express is another premium card with extensive airport lounge access, elite status perks, and statement credits.
Some credit cards offer elevated travel rewards and travel credits. The Venture X card from Capital One, for example, provides access to over 1300 lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass lounges. The United Club Card is another option that offers unlimited United Club lounge access.
While TSA PreCheck may not be a priority for everyone, it can be a significant convenience for frequent travellers, especially at large airports with long security lines. It is worth noting that some credit card loyalty programs also offer TSA PreCheck credits or allow you to use travel credits or rewards points to pay the application fee.
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Free fast-lane programs
There are several free fast-lane programs that allow travellers to skip the long wait at the airport. These programs are available at select airports and terminals, and some require advance reservations. Here are some of the free fast-lane programs:
LAX Fast Lane
The LAX Fast Lane program is available at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for guests flying out of Terminals 7 and 8. This program allows travellers to schedule a specific time for their TSA security screening, reducing their wait time. Reservations can be made up to 3 days in advance, and there is no cost to participate.
DFW Fast Pass
The DFW Fast Pass system is available at Terminal D, checkpoint D18, at the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. This program is for general security screening, and reservations can be made up to a week in advance. It is free to use, and travellers can make reservations for up to ten passengers at once.
JFK Terminal 4 Reservations
Travellers passing through Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City can make reservations to skip the line between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. These reservations can be made online up to 72 hours in advance.
Reserve by Clear
Reserve by Clear is a free service now offered at 20 airports in North America and Europe, including six major European hubs. This program allows travellers to reserve a dedicated time to pass through airport security in a special fast-track lane. Travellers can choose a time that works with their schedule and book their free spot on the Reserve by Clear website.
Southwest Fly By Lane
Southwest Airlines offers the Fly By Lane program, which provides direct access to the front of the ticket counter and security checkpoints at select airports. This program is available to passengers who purchase a Business Select Fare or who hold A-List or A-List Preferred elite status with Southwest.
In addition to these free programs, there are also paid options such as TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and Global Entry, which offer expedited security screening at many airports. These programs typically require an application process and an enrolment fee.
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Upgrading your seat
Check Flight Load and Availability:
Before your trip, monitor the flight load on your airline's website. If there are empty seats in premium cabins, there may be a higher chance of scoring an upgrade. Keep in mind that this strategy is more effective on less popular routes and domestic flights.
Timing is Crucial:
The best time to inquire about upgrades is right after booking your flight. Contact the airline to check for any paid upgrade availability. If that doesn't work, you can try again during check-in, either online or at the check-in desk. If you're still unsuccessful, proceed to the gate, where you can chat with the gate agent just before boarding. They may have a better sense of last-minute cancellations or no-shows and can offer you a paid upgrade.
Frequent Flyer Programs and Elite Status:
Airlines often prioritize frequent flyers with elite status for complimentary upgrades. If you fly frequently with a particular airline, consider enrolling in their loyalty program to accumulate miles or points. These can be redeemed for upgrades or to move yourself up the upgrade waitlist. Additionally, some airlines offer status-matching programs, allowing you to leverage your status with one airline to gain benefits with another.
Credit Card Benefits:
Certain credit cards, such as hotel or travel credit cards, offer perks that can help you secure upgrades. For example, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card provides Gold Status with Marriott, which may translate to benefits with partner airlines. Utilizing credit card points or airline miles is a common strategy to upgrade to business or first class.
Dress for the Occasion:
While there are mixed opinions on whether attire influences your chances of an upgrade, it may still be worth dressing neatly and professionally. However, your comfort during the flight should also be a priority, so avoid dressing up solely for the purpose of an upgrade.
Ask Directly:
Don't be afraid to politely inquire about upgrades during check-in or at the gate. You can politely ask if there are any upgrade opportunities available, and if so, express your interest. Remember that gate agents have demanding jobs, so approach them respectfully and don't be discouraged if they decline your request.
Choose Airlines Strategically:
Some airlines, like JetBlue, are known for offering roomier economy seats or specific upgrade options like their "Even More Space" seats. Additionally, consider favoring airlines with status-matching programs or those that are part of alliances, such as Star Alliance (including Swiss Airlines, United Airlines, Air Canada, Lufthansa, and ANA).
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to skip the lines at the airport. You can enroll in trusted traveler programs such as TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry, which offer expedited security lanes at many airports. Alternatively, some airports offer free programs that allow travelers to schedule their security checks for specific time slots, such as LAX Fast Lane, DFW Fast Pass, and SEA Spot Saver.
TSA PreCheck is a government-run trusted traveler program that allows members to use expedited security lanes at over 200 U.S. airports. With TSA PreCheck, you can speed through security without removing your laptops, belts, or jackets. To enroll, you need to submit an online application and schedule an in-person appointment. A five-year membership typically costs $78 to $85.
Yes, several U.S. airports now offer free, scheduled security appointment programs to help travelers avoid long waits. These include the DFW Fast Pass, JFK T4 Reserve, LAX Fast Lane, and SEA Spot Saver programs. These programs allow travelers to reserve a time slot for their security screening in advance, allowing them to skip the line during their designated time.
Yes, there are several other ways to expedite your time at the airport. You can upgrade your seat, purchase priority status, or enroll in an airline elite status package, which may offer faster check-in and security lines. Additionally, consider choosing a less busy travel time, such as flying during off-peak hours or on a morning flight, to avoid peak crowds.
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