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Partnership means faster airport screens for service members

  • Published
  • By American Forces Press Service
  • American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON --  Defense Department and Transportation Security Administration officials today announced a partnership to expand "TSA Precheck" expedited screening benefits to all U.S. armed forces service members, including those serving in the Coast Guard, Reserves and National Guard, during their official or leisure travel.

As a result of the agreement, these individuals will be able to enjoy the benefits of the program at the 100 participating airports across the country beginning Dec. 20, 2013, officials said.

Currently, members of the armed forces can use TSA Precheck lanes at 10 domestic airports by presenting their common access cards. The partnership expands the program to all 100 airports offering TSA Precheck, allowing service members to keep their footwear and light outerwear on and their laptop in its case, as well as to have their 3-1-1 compliant liquids and gels bag in a carry-on bag in select screening lanes.

"Expanding TSA Precheck screening benefits is great news for our service members and is a tangible sign of this nation's gratitude for the men and women who serve this nation bravely each and every day," said Mary Snavely-Dixon, Defense Manpower Data Center director. "We will continue to work with the Transportation Security Administration to help expand this program further."

The new process being established under this agreement allows all active duty, Coast Guard, Reserve and National Guard service members to use their DOD identification number when making reservations. That ID number will be used as their Known Traveler Number. When arriving at the airport, service members will then be permitted access to TSA Precheck lanes for official or leisure travel on participating airlines.

"TSA joins with the American people in showing its appreciation for the service and sacrifices of our men and women in the Armed Forces," said John W. Halinski, TSA deputy administrator and a 25-year Marine Corps veteran. "Providing expedited screening while on travel is the least we can do for these courageous men and women."

More than 18 million passengers have experienced TSA Precheck since it launched in October 2011.

TSA also noted that wounded service members can get expedited screening without having to remove footwear, light outerwear, jackets or headwear. To take advantage of that program, wounded warriors or their care coordinators can contact "TSA Cares" toll free at 1-855-787-2227 with details of the itinerary once flight arrangements are made with the airline.

TSA will always incorporate random and unpredictable security measures throughout the airport, officials said, so no one is guaranteed expedited screening. Travelers can check the TSA Precheck participating airports web page for information on locations and hours of active TSA Precheck lanes.