Air Travelers Reduce Long Security Waits with This Surprising Hack

Long airport lines have worsened amid the partial government shutdown. Travelers now use TSA PreCheck Touchless IDs to speed past delays.

Why lines grew and how touchless IDs help

The shutdown has left 50,000 security officers working without pay. Many officers have vacated shifts or taken unannounced leave.

That staffing squeeze produced longer waits that even programs like Clear and traditional PreCheck struggled to fix. The touchless system uses facial-comparison technology to verify identities. Eligible flyers can use dedicated lanes to bypass security bottlenecks.

How the program was developed

The system is a joint effort of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, airports, and airlines. The rollout aims to expedite screening at busy checkpoints.

The Transportation Security Administration posted details about the program on X. Photos from Terminal C at Newark Liberty International Airport showed officers checking IDs and screening bags on March 16, 2026. Photo credit: Luiz C. Ribeiro for Filmogaz.com.

Who can use it

• Participating carriers include American, Alaska, Delta, Southwest, and United.
• The feature is available only at select airports and with certain airlines.

Enrollment and eligibility requirements

Travelers must sign up before checking in. The option appears under the “travel documents” section of airline loyalty profiles.

To qualify, passengers need an active profile with a participating carrier. They must also be enrolled in TSA PreCheck and have a Known Traveler Number. A valid passport number must be uploaded to the airline profile.

Limits and practical points

The touchless ID is not an automatic pass through security. Travelers must carry a REAL ID‑compliant physical ID if an officer requests it.

Availability varies by airport and airline. Still, many air travelers say this surprising hack helps reduce long security waits.

Traveler reactions and broader pressure

Some passengers report dramatically shorter screening times. One traveler said they were dropped off at 5:35 a.m. and through security by 5:45 a.m.

Executives from major U.S. airlines urged Congress on Sunday to resolve the shutdown quickly. Airlines warned that staffing gaps threaten further delays.

Filmogaz.com will continue to follow changes to TSA procedures and program availability. Check airline profiles and TSA updates before travel.