Raleigh-Durham Airport: Clear Security Experience?

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) has become the 50th airport in the US to introduce CLEAR's identity verification technology. The technology is designed to ease and expedite the passenger security screening process. CLEAR costs $189 for members and provides access to expedited security lanes at airports and other facilities. Members can verify their identity using their eyes or fingers and then proceed directly to TSA for the remainder of the security screening without further waiting.

CLEAR identity verification technology launched at Raleigh-Durham International Airport in 2023

In 2023, CLEAR identity verification technology was launched at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. CLEAR is a secure identity verification platform that allows users to streamline their physical and digital experiences by verifying their identity through a "Verified Badge". This badge can be used to speed through airport security, skip the counter for rental cars, and even access sports stadiums and arenas more quickly.

At Raleigh-Durham International Airport, CLEAR Plus members can access dedicated lanes to get to their gates faster. The airport authority's decision to implement CLEAR expedited security lanes in both terminals is a response to the surge in holiday travelers the airport experiences during the fall and winter months.

CLEAR's identity verification technology offers a faster and easier way for travelers to move through the airport. With CLEAR, users can verify their identity and access the CLEAR Mobile Lane by purchasing a pass or using the QR code in the CLEAR app. This allows travelers to skip long lines and get to their gates more efficiently, especially when combined with the Plane Train that services the International Terminal.

The CLEAR app also offers additional benefits, such as the ability to add up to three people to your account, providing a curb-to-gate service for a seamless travel experience. CLEAR's identity verification technology provides peace of mind and enhances security, minimizing the risk of identity theft and manual errors. The platform is also useful outside of the airport, offering faster entry to stadiums and arenas and providing identity verification for rideshare apps and rental cars.

Overall, the launch of CLEAR identity verification technology at Raleigh-Durham International Airport in 2023 is a positive development that improves the travel experience for passengers, offering faster security processes and a more efficient journey from curb to gate.

CLEAR Plus membership costs $16 a month and offers expedited security lanes

Raleigh-Durham International Airport offers CLEAR Plus, a paid membership service that provides expedited security lanes at select airports. CLEAR Plus members can skip the regular security line and proceed directly to the physical screening, saving time during the airport security process. The service is available at 55+ airports across the country, including Raleigh-Durham International Airport, as well as at stadiums and entertainment venues.

CLEAR Plus costs $199 per year, which equates to approximately $16 per month. This fee can be reduced through various discounts and promotions, such as those offered by specific credit cards, airline loyalty programs, and frequent flier memberships. Additionally, bundling CLEAR Plus with TSA PreCheck can result in further savings, with the first year of CLEAR Plus costing as low as $121.05 when combined with five years of TSA PreCheck for $77.95.

CLEAR Plus is particularly beneficial for frequent travellers who value time efficiency at the airport. It is designed to streamline the security process, allowing members to move faster through dedicated CLEAR Lanes at TSA checkpoints. This can be especially advantageous at busy airports or during peak travel times.

While CLEAR Plus offers expedited security lanes, it is important to note that it does not include the benefits of TSA PreCheck, which allows travellers to keep their shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, and light jackets on during screening. For the optimal airport experience, some sources recommend enrolling in both CLEAR Plus and TSA PreCheck. However, the cost of CLEAR Plus may be a consideration for travellers, as it is significantly higher than other pre-clearance programs.

Discounted CLEAR Plus memberships are available for Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and American Express members

Raleigh-Durham International Airport offers CLEAR expedited security lanes in both terminals. CLEAR Plus members can access dedicated lanes to speed through security and get to their gates faster.

CLEAR Plus is available at over 55 airports, and discounted CLEAR Plus memberships are offered through certain airline loyalty programs. Delta Air Lines, for instance, offers preferred membership rates for U.S.-based Delta SkyMiles members. Diamond Medallion and Delta 360 members can enjoy a free annual membership, while Platinum/Gold/Silver Medallion Members and eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card Members can get an annual membership for $159 (a $40 discount). SkyMiles members can also access discounted rates of $189 for an annual membership.

United Airlines also offers discounts on CLEAR Plus memberships to its United MileagePlus members. Every member is eligible to receive a $70 discount, and those with elite status or a United credit card can get an $80 discount. The highest tier of elite status members can even get a free CLEAR membership.

American Express cardholders can also access discounted CLEAR Plus memberships. For example, the New United Explorer Card comes with a $120 TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee credit, so cardholders could get both CLEAR and TSA PreCheck and save a total of $140.

CLEAR is not the same as TSA PreCheck, which has its own expedited lane and lighter screening process

Raleigh-Durham International Airport offers both CLEAR and TSA PreCheck to speed up the security process for travellers. While both programs aim to expedite the security process, they are not the same and offer distinct benefits.

CLEAR is a private company that offers a faster identity check at the airport. Members can verify their identity at a CLEAR pod using their eyes or fingerprints. CLEAR is also available at select sports stadiums and entertainment venues, allowing members to fast-track their entry. At Raleigh-Durham International Airport, CLEAR Plus members can access dedicated CLEAR lanes in the International Terminal, enabling them to reach their gates faster.

On the other hand, TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program that identifies travellers deemed low-risk by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Once approved, TSA PreCheck members can enjoy expedited security screening at U.S. airports nationwide. They do not need to remove their shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, or light jackets during the security check. TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports, and members can take advantage of exclusive pricing when bundling it with CLEAR Plus.

While CLEAR provides a faster identity check, TSA PreCheck expedites both the identity and physical screening processes. TSA PreCheck members can move through a separate, faster security lane. Additionally, TSA PreCheck is more widely available and is the more affordable option, costing $77.95 for five years. In contrast, CLEAR Plus membership costs $199 per year for individuals.

Both programs offer unique advantages, and many travellers find that combining CLEAR and TSA PreCheck provides the quickest and most efficient route through airport security. By enrolling in both programs, travellers can take advantage of CLEAR's expedited identity verification and TSA PreCheck's lighter physical screening process, making their overall airport experience smoother and less time-consuming.

CLEAR members verify their identity with their eyes or fingers, eliminating the need for a wallet or driver's license

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) has recently partnered with CLEAR to introduce its identity verification technology at the airport. CLEAR is an identity company that offers friction-free experiences to its members as they live, work, and travel. With CLEAR, members can verify their identity with their eyes or fingers, doing away with the need for a wallet or driver's license.

CLEAR's dedicated lanes at the airport allow members to be biometrically identified, after which a CLEAR Ambassador escorts them through the lane and directly to the TSA checkpoint, saving time waiting in line. This is particularly beneficial given the long traditional security lines, often managed by a handful of security personnel checking identification.

CLEAR costs $189 for members annually, with monthly payments coming out to approximately $16. Discounted memberships are available for Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Express members, as well as active military, veterans, and government officials. Additional family members can be added to an existing CLEAR Plus account for $60 per adult per year.

CLEAR is not a replacement for TSA security checkpoints but rather expedites the process by allowing members to verify their identity and proceed directly to the TSA for the remainder of the security screening. CLEAR members can also benefit from faster entry at stadiums and arenas that employ the service.

The addition of Raleigh-Durham International Airport as CLEAR's 50th airport is expected to add 44 jobs and generate approximately $2.6 million in local economic activity in the area.

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