December 26th 2023.
The holiday season is an especially busy time for airports, and with surging numbers of travelers, the debate over which airport security line to choose has become more intense. Millions of passengers are expected to fly this week, making the effectiveness of security programs like TSA PreCheck and Clear critical.
TSA PreCheck, introduced by the government in 2011, has seen a surge in enrollment and now counts over 18 million passengers. Unfortunately, the popularity of the program seems to have caused longer wait times, prompting some members to voice their dissatisfaction on social media.
Jeffrey Price, a professor at the Metropolitan State University of Denver and airport management consultant, told CNN that it’s a judgment call for travelers when they reach the screening checkpoint. He said they must decide which line would require the least amount of time. The Transportation Security Administration has acknowledged a slight increase in wait times for PreCheck passengers, and is working to address the issue.
Clear, a private security company, has gained traction due to its promise of speeding up identity verification using biometrics. The company doesn’t replace physical TSA security screenings, but it does enable members to move to the front of the line once their identity is confirmed. Clear has seen an increase in membership to 6% of all TSA checkpoint volume in December 2022, largely due to airline discounts and investments.
However, some travelers have found Clear to be counterproductive compared to TSA PreCheck, especially at airports like Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta and Chicago O’Hare. Security lapses have led to longer ID checks at Clear, slowing down the process. Gary Leff, an airline industry expert, urges travelers to consider factors such as airport staffing levels and whether the program justifies its cost, and to opt for the less expensive TSA PreCheck when it’s the more efficient option.
As the debate over TSA PreCheck and Clear continues, travelers must remember to take a strategic approach to minimize wait times and make their holiday travel experience smoother. The TSA and Clear are working to alleviate the increased demand with more staffing and additional lanes and technology. With the right approach, travelers can avoid the long lines this holiday season.
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