Tsa Launches Egates To Speed Up Airport Security Checkpoint Lines

TSA bans new items in checked bags. Here’s what travelers should know.

The Transportation Security Administration has added new items to its banned list. What travelers need to know before packing for their next flight.

• The TSA is piloting eGates, an automated biometric system, to speed up security checkpoints.
• The system compares travelers' biometrics to their ID and boarding pass, eliminating the need for manual checks by TSA officers.

Airport security checkpoint lines can sometimes feel like a major hold-up, but the launch of new electronic gates may help travelers get through them faster.

Called eGates, these new security checkpoint features automatically compare someone's biometrics against their identification document and boarding pass instead of by a Transportation Security Administration officer at the podium, according to a news release by the agency on Aug. 19.

The new pilot program is meant to streamline the airport security screening process, including "enhancing efficiency and security," the release continued. Under the new modernization program, travelers will scan their boarding pass and walk up to the eGate, which scans their face. Once cleared, they go directly to the bag screening.

"eGates accomplish several objectives toward achieving Secretary Noem’s goal to enhance TSA security and hospitality," said TSA Acting Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl in a statement. "This includes creating a seamless, less invasive traveler experience and shorter wait times at TSA security checkpoints."

The eGates are currently being piloted in partnership with CLEAR – a privately run program that already uses biometrics to expedite travelers' security screening – and is only available to CLEAR+ members at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), where it launched earlier this month.

TSA has complete operational control over the eGates, with CLEAR only transmitting limited data, like a live photo and boarding pass, the company said in a news release.

"CLEAR is investing in this technology at no cost to taxpayers to modernize our checkpoints and ensure America’s airports are ready to meet global expectations," said CLEAR CEO Caryn Seidman Becker in a statement. "CLEAR’s secure identity platform will help unlock a better, safer, and more frictionless experience for all travelers."

The eGates will roll out at Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) this month with a slated nationwide implementation before the influx of travel for the FIFA World Cup 2026 games, according to CLEAR.