Paperless Travel: Logan Airport's Digital Transition

Boston Logan International Airport is one of the best at managing checkpoint waiting times, but getting through security can still be time-consuming and a hassle. To pass through security faster, it is recommended that you have your boarding pass and a government-issued ID with you. It is also important to check that you are not carrying any prohibited items. To make the process smoother, you should take off your shoes and outer garments, place loose metal items in your carry-on bag, take laptops out of their cases, layer your items for visibility, and ensure that any liquids follow the 3-1-1 format. Gifts must be unwrapped, and medications, baby formula, food, breast milk, and juice must be declared for inspection.

Identification requirements

To pass through security at Logan Airport, you will need to present a boarding pass and a valid ID, such as a driver's license or passport. From May 7, 2025, all domestic travellers will need a REAL ID to fly. This means that if you are flying within the United States, your driver's license will need to be a REAL ID.

Logan Airport uses Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which allows TSA officers to confirm travellers' flight details and trusted traveller program enrolment by scanning their ID. This means that you may not need to show your boarding pass at security, but you will still need to obtain one from your airline and show it when boarding your flight.

It is recommended that you arrive at Logan Airport two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international departures to ensure adequate time for check-in, security screening, and travel to your gate.

Boarding passes

At Boston Logan International Airport, passengers are no longer required to show their boarding pass at security. Instead, the TSA has installed Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which allows TSA officers to confirm travellers' flight details and trusted traveller program enrolment by scanning their ID. However, passengers will still need to check in with their airline and obtain a boarding pass, either on paper or electronically. This will need to be scanned at the gate when boarding the flight.

Mobile boarding passes are available at most airports. To use a mobile boarding pass, passengers should check in online and choose the 'Email with Mobile Option'. They can also check in using an airline's app, and the mobile boarding pass will be stored on their device. Passengers should ensure that their entire barcode is visible on the screen when showing it at security.

While mobile boarding passes are convenient, some recommend printing out a paper boarding pass as a backup. Former flight attendant Sue Fogwell states, "I prefer paper boarding passes because it's easier and has fewer hassles. I don't always like to rely on my iPhone. On too many occasions, my battery is running dangerously low, or the gate is in a dead zone and I lose my signal." Additionally, for international travel, border agents may ask to see a paper boarding pass. Furthermore, paper boarding passes typically provide more information than digital ones, including the e-ticket number and booking code.

If a passenger does not have access to a printer, they can print their boarding pass at the airport. Most airports have self-service kiosks where passengers can print their boarding passes. They can also ask the airline to print a boarding pass at the check-in counter, though some low-fare airlines may charge a fee for this service.

Carry-on luggage

To ensure a smooth experience at Logan Airport, it is important to be aware of the regulations and requirements for carry-on luggage. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you prepare:

Documents and Identification

Firstly, ensure that you have a valid boarding pass and a government-issued ID with you. Beginning on May 7, 2025, all domestic travellers must have a REAL ID to fly. It is recommended to upgrade to a REAL ID beforehand to avoid any issues.

Liquids

When it comes to liquids, Logan Airport follows the standard "3-1-1" rule. This means you can only bring bottles that are 3 ounces or less. These bottles must be placed in a clear, plastic, 1-quart, zip-lock bag, and you are only allowed one bag. There are exceptions for medical reasons, which can be reviewed on the TSA website.

Prohibited Items

It is crucial to familiarise yourself with the list of prohibited items for carry-on luggage. Firearms, ammunition, knives, and other weapons are strictly prohibited. Additionally, certain items like gel-type candles, aerosol insecticides, and strike-anywhere matches are also banned. Make sure to check the TSA's list of prohibited items before packing.

Electronics and Valuables

Laptops and tablets must be removed from their cases and placed in separate bins for X-ray screening. It is recommended to keep these devices easily accessible to facilitate a smoother security process. Additionally, remove any jewellery, watches, or other valuables and place them in your carry-on bag before passing through the metal detector.

Gifts and Wrapped Items

If you are bringing gifts or other wrapped items, they must be unwrapped for screening. This applies to both carry-on luggage and checked baggage. It is best to wrap gifts after passing through security or upon reaching your destination.

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR

Consider enrolling in the TSA PreCheck program, which allows you to bypass certain security measures and expedite your clearance. CLEAR, another membership program, is available in Terminals A and B, allowing members to skip the airport security line and go straight to screening.

Timing and Preparation

Arrive at the airport with ample time before your flight. It is recommended to arrive two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international departures. Additionally, prepare your carry-on luggage by layering items to increase visibility for security officers. This can help speed up the screening process.

In summary, preparing your carry-on luggage for Logan Airport involves adhering to liquid restrictions, knowing prohibited items, organising electronics and valuables, and allowing sufficient time for security checks. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother travel experience through Logan Airport.

Checked luggage

When checking in luggage at Logan Airport, it is important to follow the guidelines to ensure a smooth experience. Firstly, it is recommended to check with your airline regarding their specific policies on checked luggage, including any size, weight, or quantity limitations. It is also advised to arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight—two hours for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.

At the check-in counter, you will need to provide your luggage, which should be properly secured and labelled with your name and destination address. Old destination labels from previous trips must be removed. Additionally, ensure that you do not pack important documents, medication, valuable items, or cash in your checked luggage. If you have special items, such as sporting equipment or musical instruments, you may need to make arrangements in advance. Some items, like scuba diving equipment, fishing tackle, and bicycles, may incur additional charges.

When checking in, you will also need to present valid identification, such as a passport or a REAL ID for domestic flights within the U.S. Keep in mind that certain items are prohibited in checked luggage, including explosives, firearms, and sharp objects. For a comprehensive list of prohibited items, refer to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines.

After checking in your luggage, you will proceed to the security screening. This typically involves a baggage checkpoint and a passenger checkpoint. All electronic devices, outerwear, and metal items will need to be screened separately. It is advisable to avoid wearing metal items or jewellery to expedite the process.

Security screening

• Have your boarding pass and a valid government-issued ID ready for inspection. At some airports, including Logan Airport, the TSA has installed Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which allows officers to confirm travellers' details by scanning their IDs. However, it is still essential to have your boarding pass on hand, as you will need it when boarding your flight.
• Remove your shoes, jackets, and other outer garments before passing through the security checkpoint.
• Place any loose metal items in your carry-on luggage to avoid setting off the metal detectors.
• Take laptops and other electronic devices out of their carrying cases and place them in a bin for separate screening.
• Layer the items in your luggage to increase visibility for security officers.
• Ensure any liquids you are carrying adhere to the "3-1-1" rule: they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less, and all liquids must fit in a single one-quart transparent zip-lock bag.
• If you are bringing gifts, they must be unwrapped for screening.
• Check that you are not carrying any prohibited items. Firearms, weapons, and certain other items are not permitted through security. If you must travel with these items, contact your airline beforehand to ensure you comply with regulations.
• Consider enrolling in the TSA PreCheck or Clear programs, which allow travellers to bypass certain security measures or go straight to security screening without waiting in line.
• Arrive early to allow adequate time for security screening. It is recommended to arrive at Logan Airport at least two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international departures.

Frequently asked questions