The eGates are being piloted by the private company CLEAR, a participant in the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Registered Traveler Program
New electronic gates (eGates) are being introduced at selected US airports to automate identity verification at security checkpoints in a new public-private partnership. The technology is designed to speed up the process for passengers by using biometrics to verify their identity and boarding pass without the need for a human operator.
The eGates are being piloted by the private company CLEAR, a participant in the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Registered Traveler Program, at no cost to US taxpayers. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the TSA to modernise security procedures and improve the traveller experience.
The first eGates have been installed at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), with plans for a rollout at Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) in the coming weeks.
“TSA’s public-private partnership with CLEAR on eGates is just one example of how we are working with stakeholders both inside and outside of government to improve hospitality and security for the American traveler,” said TSA Acting Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl.
He added that the new gates would help to create a “seamless, less invasive traveler experience and shorter wait times at TSA security checkpoints.” The introduction of the eGates is part of the government’s push for a “new Golden Age of American Travel,” according to Stahl.
While CLEAR is operating the eGates, the TSA will continue to be responsible for all passenger identification and vetting. The initiative is being presented as one of a number of eGate systems that the TSA and its partners plan to introduce as part of ongoing modernisation efforts.
