Sunday, 15 June 2025

American-Based Airline Launches Biometric Verification Program

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American Airlines has launched its TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program at multiple U.S. airports.

The program brings an optional, for now, facial recognition technology verification at security checkpoints for eligible travelers.

The biometric program is now active at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).

Per ID Tech Wire:

It enables travelers to verify their identity by simply standing in front of a camera. A live image is captured and matched to government-held photos, such as those from passport or Global Entry records, allowing travelers to proceed through TSA PreCheck lanes without presenting any documents.

Enrollment in the program is voluntary and limited to American Airlines AAdvantage members aged 18 or older. Participants must also hold a valid passport and an active TSA PreCheck membership with a Known Traveler Number (KTN). Travelers can opt in via the airline’s website or mobile app. Enrollment remains valid for one year, and users may opt out at any time, reverting to traditional ID checks.

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The Touchless ID system complies with the TSA’s broader digital transformation goals and operates within the framework of the Aviation Security Enterprise Architecture (ASEA). Privacy protections are governed by the Privacy Act of 1974 and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policies. Biometric data collected is not used for commercial purposes and is stored and processed strictly for security screening.

Simple Flying reports:

With these to hand, travelers can then opt the service anywhere they access their AAdvantage account. This opt-in remains valid for a year, and passengers can opt out at any time. Then it is as simple as finding and using the dedicated Touchless ID security lane at the airport, which is invariably the fastest way through security – even faster than standard TSA PreCheck and Clear. However, it is worth noting that travelers should still carry a physical ID in the event of any need for manual checks.

Julie Rath, senior vice president of customer experience at American Airlines, says that this is just the first step in the airline’s use of biometrics. She sees opportunities to expand Touchless ID across more airports and integrate it for baggage check, boarding, and lounge access. She said:

“This is the future of frictionless travel. The technology delivers a more seamless and secure travel experience for our customers, and we plan to expand it to all areas of our customers’ journeys with American Airlines.”

Avid readers will know that American Airlines is actually slightly late to the game when it comes to using biometrics. It was Delta Air Lines that first partnered with TSA back in 2021 in the creation of its Digital ID program. It provides the service to SkyMiles members with the same TSA PreCheck and passport requirements, allowing passengers to use facial recognition for security screening at seven US airports. It has also expanded the use of biometrics to include baggage drop and boarding of aircraft.

Alaska Airlines has also started offering biometric security screening, and a major lift to the program happened last year when United Airlines began offering it, expanding the service to a host of new airports. Given that there are digital ID partnerships with other airlines already live at American Airlines hubs such as ORD, JFK, LGA, and LAX, we can surely expect to see American Airlines rapidly expand the number of airports where it offers the service.

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