Ruth Haines
Nobody likes waiting in long lines at the airport. Luckily, there are several ways to skip or at least shorten the waiting time. One way is to sign up for expedited security programs such as TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR. These programs offer separate and shorter lines, simplified security screenings, and faster passport control. Alternatively, some airports offer free reservation programs that allow passengers to schedule security screening appointments, bypassing the need to wait in line. Other ways to avoid lines include upgrading your seat, limiting yourself to carry-on luggage, and choosing off-peak travel times. Additionally, having a basic understanding of TSA rules and regulations can help you navigate security checks more efficiently.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Upgrade your fare | Purchase first class or business class tickets |
| Join a security clearance program | TSA PreCheck, CLEAR+, Global Entry |
| Use specific credit cards | The Platinum Card from American Express, The Business Platinum Card from American Express |
| Use specific lanes | United's Premier Access, Southwest's Fly By Lane |
| Use specific checkpoints | DFW Fast Pass, JFK T4 Reserve, LAX Fast Lane, PHX Reserve, DEN Reserve |
| Use specific programs | SEA Spot Saver, VirtuaLine |
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What You'll Learn
Sign up for a security clearance program like TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck is one of several government-run trusted traveler programs that allow members to use expedited security lanes at over 200 US airports. Members can speed through security without removing their laptops, belts, or jackets.
To apply for TSA PreCheck, you can visit the TSA website to select an enrollment provider that meets your needs and has a center near you. Some authorized providers include CLEAR, IDEMIA, and Telos. Costs for enrollment vary by provider, and you can enroll in minutes. You can pre-enroll online and make an appointment for the in-person process, or walk into an enrollment center without an appointment. The online application takes about five minutes to complete, and the in-person visit takes about 10 minutes. During the in-person process, the enrollment provider will collect your biometric data (fingerprints, photo), verify your identity documents, and collect payment.
First-time applicants cannot pay the application fee online and must complete their application and pay in-person at a TSA enrollment center. A five-year TSA PreCheck membership can cost up to $85, depending on the enrollment provider and type (new or renewal).
Before applying, it is recommended to review the various DHS trusted traveler programs, including TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI, to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements and determine the best program for your needs. Global Entry, for example, provides expedited customs screening for members entering the US, and a five-year membership costs $100. This option might be more suitable if you plan to travel internationally. Additionally, Global Entry includes access to TSA PreCheck.
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Pay for priority status or upgrade your fare
Paying for priority status or upgrading your fare is a surefire way to skip the lines at the airport. While it may cost you, it can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you're short on time or seeking a more comfortable travel experience. Here are some options to consider:
- Upgrade your seat or fare class: Many airlines offer priority services when you purchase premium economy, business, or first-class tickets. These upgrades often include expedited check-in, dedicated security lanes, and priority boarding. For example, Southwest Airlines offers the "Fly By Lane" for passengers who purchase the Business Select Fare, granting direct access to the front of the ticket counter and security checkpoints.
- Purchase priority status: If you don't want to upgrade your seat, you may have the option to buy priority status separately. This can provide faster check-in, security, and boarding processes. Check with your airline to see if they offer this option and what specific perks are included.
- Enroll in elite status programs: Airlines often have loyalty programs or elite status packages that offer priority services as a benefit. These programs may be point-based or require a certain number of flights or miles travelled. Achieving elite status can provide ongoing perks, including priority status, for a defined period.
- Credit card benefits: Certain travel credit cards offer perks that can help you skip the lines. Some cards provide statement credits or reimbursements for enrolling in programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Additionally, specific cards may offer their own priority services or partnerships with airlines or airports for expedited security lanes.
- Security clearance programs: Consider enrolling in government-run or private security clearance programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or Clear. These programs offer expedited security lanes at numerous airports, allowing you to speed through security without removing your shoes, laptops, or jackets. While these programs come with a fee, they can significantly reduce your waiting time.
Remember to research the specific options provided by your chosen airline and airport, as offerings may vary. Additionally, planning your travel during off-peak times or choosing less busy airports can also help reduce potential wait times.
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Use specific terminals or airports with fast lanes
Some airports have fast lanes and other programs that allow passengers to skip the security line at no cost. For example, the DFW Fast Pass system works in Terminal D at the D18 checkpoint, and reservations can be made starting a week in advance. Terminal 4 at JFK also has a similar system, where travellers can make a reservation to skip the line between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. Reservations can be made up to 72 hours in advance.
Additionally, some airlines offer elite statuses that you can upgrade to, which provide priority boarding and separate security lines at certain airports. For example, United's Premier Access speeds you through airport security and provides access to dedicated check-in lines and priority boarding. Southwest's Fly By Lane grants direct access to the front of the ticket counter and security checkpoints at select airports. Check with your airline to see if it offers similar services.
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Book appointments at select airports
Booking an appointment at select airports is a great way to skip the line. This option is available at several airports, including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Denver International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, and Orlando International Airport.
At Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, travellers can use the SEA Spot Saver program to make a reservation for the TSA general screening security line. This free program allows travellers to book in advance or check for same-day appointments. To book, travellers select their airline, destination, flight number, party size, and contact information. They will then receive a QR code to use at their assigned checkpoint during their appointment time.
Denver International Airport offers a similar program called DEN Reserve. Travellers can reserve a time slot for the TSA security screening line up to three days in advance or upon arrival at the airport. This program is available daily from 5 am to 5 pm for flights departing between 6 am and 9 pm.
Newark Liberty International Airport and Orlando International Airport also offer online reservation systems for the TSA security screening line. Reservations can be made up to 72 hours before departure, and travellers are escorted to the front of the line upon arrival at the airport.
In addition to these airports, some airlines offer their own programs that allow travellers to skip the line. For example, United Airlines offers Premier Access, which provides exclusive security lanes and dedicated check-in lines. Southwest Airlines offers the Fly By Lane, which grants direct access to the front of the ticket counter and security checkpoints.
These book-ahead options at select airports provide travellers with a convenient way to expedite their security screening process and save time during their journey.
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Get Global Entry for expedited customs screening
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveller Program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers upon arrival in the United States. The program is ideal for frequent international or business travellers.
Global Entry members can skip the line by scanning their passports or U.S. permanent resident cards at a Global Entry kiosk, completing the customs declaration form, scanning their fingerprints, and proceeding onward onto U.S. soil. This can save a lot of time when the customs line is long at busy airports or during high-volume travel periods.
Global Entry costs $100 for a five-year membership and includes access to TSA PreCheck, which allows expedited security screening at over 200 U.S. airports. To apply for Global Entry, you must submit an online application and schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center, typically found at international U.S. airports. The application fee is $120, and the process includes a background check.
Some credit cards offer line-skipping privileges or reimbursement for the Global Entry application fee, so it is worth checking if your credit card provides these benefits. Additionally, some elite status or credit card memberships may offer line-skipping privileges at airports, so be sure to check your benefits before purchasing priority status or security clearance programs.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several free programs that allow travellers to skip the line at the airport, including:
- SEA Spot Saver at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
- LAX Fast Lane at Los Angeles Airport
- DFW Fast Pass at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport
- JFK T4 Reserve at JFK Airport
- PHX Reserve at Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport
- DEN Reserve at Denver Airport
- Reserve at Orlando International Airport
There are several paid programs that allow travellers to skip the line at the airport, including:
- TSA PreCheck
- CLEAR+
- Global Entry
- United’s Premier Access
- Southwest’s Fly By Lane
There are several ways to skip the line at the airport without enrolling in a program. Firstly, you can upgrade your fare or purchase priority status. Secondly, you can gain elite status through points programs or by using airline credit cards. Thirdly, you can check-in online and bring a digital copy of your ticket. Finally, you can avoid busy travel days and peak times by extending your trip or travelling during off-peak times.
