Travelers passing through international airports in Arizona will soon be able to wear their shoes and jackets through security checkpoints.
The Transportation Security Administration announced Wednesday the expansion of its expedited screening program to 60 new airports – including to Tucson International Airport – by the end of the year.
Called PreCheck, the quick security check allows passengers to keep their shoes, outerwear and belt on, while laptops and appropriate-sized liquids can remain in carry-on luggage.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is one of the 40 airports nationwide that already offers the PreCheck program through US Airways in Terminal 4, Checkpoint A. The TSA said it also plans to increase the number of PreCheck lanes at those airports within the coming months.
As of now, only frequent fliers at select airlines are eligible for the program, in addition to travelers who are members of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Trusted Traveler programs. However, the TSA plans to launch an application process to allow any passenger to join PreCheck, which includes an $85 fee and verification of identity through fingerprints.
Airlines that currently participate in the program include: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Virgin America.
For more information, and for a full list of airports participating in the PreCheck program, click here.
