TSA Administrator John Pistole testifies before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee regarding security in U.S. ports with emphasis on worker identification on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on May 10, 2011. UPI/Roger L. Wollenberg |
License Photo
WASHINGTON, July 14 (UPI) -- The head of the U.S. Transportation Security Administration said Thursday the agency planned to enhance identity-based, preflight screening capabilities.
"These improvements will enable our officers to focus their efforts on higher risk areas," TSA Administrator John S. Pistole said in Washington. "Enhancing identity-based screening is another common sense step in the right direction as we continue to strengthen overall security, and improve the passenger experience whenever possible."
In a statement released by the agency, Pistole said the effort would be part of a pilot program beginning this fall. TSA will test enhancements to identity-based screening through a partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection as well as U.S. air carriers.
During the first phase, some frequent fliers and members of CBP's Trusted Traveler programs, including members of Global Entry, SENTRI and NEXUS, who are U.S. citizens might qualify for expedited screening at select checkpoints at certain airports.
At Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County airports, some frequent fliers from Delta Air Lines and members of CBP's Trusted Traveler programs who are U.S. citizens and who are also flying on Delta will be eligible to participate in the pilot program.
At Miami International and Dallas Fort Worth International airports, some frequent fliers from American Airlines and members of CBP's Trusted Traveler programs who are U.S. citizens and who are also flying on American will be eligible.
TSA plans to expand the pilot program to include United Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue, US Airways, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines, as well as add airports, once operationally ready.
