TSA PreCheck program expands to 60 more airports

The Transportation and Security Administration has announced it will expand its PreCheck prescreening program to a total of 100 airports by the end of the year -- about 60 more than the 40 airports already using it.

Despite the expansion, the program is only available to frequent fliers on certain airlines, including Alaska, American, Delta, Hawaiian, United, US Air and Virgin America. JetBlue and Southwest are expected to join the program.

Passengers previously had to enroll through their airline's frequent flier program, but an online application will become available directly from the TSA.

For an $85 fee, PreCheck participants can use dedicated TSA screening lanes that allow them to leave on shoes, belts and jackets. PreCheck passengers can also keep laptops and legal liquids in the carry-on bags.

TSA will also increase the number of PreCheck lanes available in the 40 airports already participating.