TSA enrolls more than 1.5 million travelers in Pre-Check program

The Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) TSA Pre-Check application system recently hit a new milestone, enrolling more than 1.5 million travelers.

TSA Pre-Check is an fast screening program that began in October 2011. The system enables low-risk travelers to go through a quick and efficient screening process at more than 150 United States airports. People approved by the process don’t need to remove shoes, liquids, laptops, light outerwear or belts at airport security.

The expedited screening program opened its first application center in December 2013 and now has more than 330 application centers nationwide, including locations at 33 airports.

The application program allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to directly apply for TSA Pre-Check. Once approved, travelers will receive a “Known Traveler Number” and can utilize separate lanes at select security checkpoints.

“Through our intelligence-driven, risk-based approach to aviation security we can adapt and stay ahead of evolving threats,” TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger said. “We are pleased to announce this milestone as growing the trusted traveler population allows us to focus on high-risk, unknown passengers.”

Twelve airline carriers are participating in the program: Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, OneJet, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Virgin America.