TSA Trusted Traveler Program On the Horizon

July 15 2011

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3 min read

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In May I wrote about TSA's plans to implement a trusted traveler program - where verified travelers can get through security quicker. This program was widely applauded in the frequent flyer community and it now looks like it is one step closer to launching.

Delta recently sent me the following email and based on reader emails, it looks like several other airlines sent a similar message at the same time. Details are still scarce, but it sounds good.

If you don't already have it, I highly recommend Global Entry (free for Amex Platinum Cardholders), which I wrote about on here. Someone even told me that my post, creatively titled "Global Entry Rocks My World," is hanging up in the JFK Global Entry office. If someone can take a picture that would be great!

Delta email:

Hello Mr. Points Guy,


We want to keep you - one of our most frequent flyers - up to date on the latest information from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). As you may have heard, TSA will be conducting a number of trials this fall that test modified screening procedures for some passengers traveling through select security checkpoints within the U.S. We will be cooperating with TSA as they begin a trial in our Atlanta and Detroit hubs at select checkpoints. During the first phase of testing, certain frequent fliers and members of Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) Global Entry, SENTRI, and NEXUS Trusted Traveler programs who are U.S. citizens will be eligible to participate in this trial which could qualify them for expedited screening. TSA will determine eligibility for inclusion in the trial on a per-flight-segment basis and does not guarantee that you would receive expedited screening on future travel. To be considered, you will be required to opt in for this trial. Details on the opt-in process will follow in future communications. We appreciate your patience while TSA tests these adjustments to their screening process that ultimately may expedite the screening for airline passengers and improve your travel experience. For more information and the latest updates, please visit tsa.gov.

We want to keep you - one of our most frequent flyers - up to date on the latest information from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

As you may have heard, TSA will be conducting a number of trials this fall that test modified screening procedures for some passengers traveling through select security checkpoints within the U.S. We will be cooperating with TSA as they begin a trial in our Atlanta and Detroit hubs at select checkpoints.

During the first phase of testing, certain frequent fliers and members of Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) Global Entry, SENTRI, and NEXUS Trusted Traveler programs who are U.S. citizens will be eligible to participate in this trial which could qualify them for expedited screening.

TSA will determine eligibility for inclusion in the trial on a per-flight-segment basis and does not guarantee that you would receive expedited screening on future travel. To be considered, you will be required to opt in for this trial. Details on the opt-in process will follow in future communications.

We appreciate your patience while TSA tests these adjustments to their screening process that ultimately may expedite the screening for airline passengers and improve your travel experience.

For more information and the latest updates, please visit tsa.gov.