United launches Touchless ID technology for Airlines

Thursday, February 29, 2024

United Airlines, in collaboration with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), has announced the launch of a revolutionary development in airport security processes, namely the ‘Touchless ID’ technology. This cutting-edge system, initially accessible to TSA PreCheck members at both Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), is set to significantly enhance the travel process by offering unprecedented convenience and efficiency.

The system allows TSA PreCheck-enrolled passengers to navigate security checkpoints with ease by merely undergoing a facial scan. By choosing to participate in United’s Touchless ID initiative via the airline’s mobile application, travelers are afforded the luxury of bypassing the traditional identification and boarding pass verifications, thereby facilitating a smoother transition through airport procedures.

To be eligible, passengers are required to upload their biometric selfie into United’s application, in addition to scanning their passports and inputting their Known Traveler Number (KTN). This process not only accelerates the security checks but also contributes to an overall enhanced travel experience for passengers.

At present, the program is open to individual travelers aged 18 and older. This is in contrast to Delta’s similar initiative, which accommodates groups provided all participants have enrolled. When juxtaposed with Clear, a private service that expedites screening through biometric technology, United’s Touchless PreCheck is lauded for its speed and minimal operational hitches.

Touchless PreCheck is designed to complement the array of TSA screening alternatives, offering travelers an effortless integration into the existing security frameworks alongside Clear’s expedited lanes. This initiative by US airlines and the TSA marks a significant step towards digitizing airport security measures, aiming to provide passengers across the country with a more streamlined and hassle-free travel experience.

The implementation of ‘Touchless ID’ technology by United Airlines, in partnership with the TSA, is poised to significantly bolster airline tourism. This initiative simplifies the security clearance process, potentially reducing wait times and improving the overall airport experience for travelers. As a result, it may encourage more frequent flying, particularly among those who value convenience and efficiency.

For airlines, the adoption of such technology could lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty, as passengers appreciate the streamlined processes that minimize the usual stress associated with air travel. Furthermore, as this technology becomes more widespread, it could serve as a competitive advantage for airlines that offer it, attracting more travelers who are TSA PreCheck members and are looking for a hassle-free airport experience. Ultimately, ‘Touchless ID’ represents a significant advancement in making air travel more appealing and accessible, which could lead to increased travel activity and, consequently, boost tourism.

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