Getting to the airport on time may be a major hassle. Long lines at security, removing shoes and liquids, and getting screened can consume much time – time better spent relaxing before your flight or grabbing a bite to eat. American airlines TSA PreCheck allows you to pass through security while keeping your shoes and light coats on, enabling you to go from curb to gate considerably faster. Learn below how to upgrade your American Airlines boarding ticket to include TSA PreCheck.
What is TSA PreCheck?
TSA PreCheck is a government-run program allowing pre-approved passengers to undergo expedited security screening at airports in the United States. PreCheck lanes have shorter lines and don’t require removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets like standard screening requires. Once you’re TSA PreCheck approved, you’ll get a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that can be added to flight reservations.
How Do I Get Approved for TSA PreCheck?
You must apply for the program and be accepted before utilizing the TSA PreCheck queues. Online or in-person applications are accepted from US citizens and legal permanent residents. The application process involves providing biographic information and fingerprints, which are checked against security databases. The application fee is $85, and approval lasts for 5 years. Global Entry membership includes TSA PreCheck privileges and is another option that can be applied for.
Once approved, you’ll be provided a KTN as your verification number. Add this number to your flight reservations and profiles anytime you book travel.
Adding PreCheck to Your American Airlines Reservation
Here are the steps to take to add TSA PreCheck to your boarding pass when flying American Airlines reservation:
⦁ Provide your KTN when booking on AA.com or through the app. This will automatically link your TSA PreCheck status.
⦁ If booking through a third-party site like Expedia or Orbitz, enter your KTN when booking.
⦁ Already booked a flight but still need to add your KTN? You can add your KTN to an existing reservation on AA.com up to 24 hours before your flight.
⦁ Alternatively, you can add your KTN to your American Airlines AAdvantage profile. This will automatically link it for future bookings. Sign in to your profile and update your Trusted Traveler number.
⦁ When checking in online 24 hours before your flight, verify your KTN is on your reservation.
⦁ Look for TSA PreCheck at the airport on your mobile or printed boarding pass to confirm eligibility. Then head to the PreCheck security lanes!
Flying Internationally? Read This.
TSA PreCheck benefits apply to flights within the United States, not international flights. However, Global Entry includes PreCheck and can make going through customs and immigration faster when returning to the US from abroad. Apply for Global Entry if you want the perks internationally and domestically.
TSA Precheck Lane
With your boarding pass, head to the TSA PreCheck lane at airport security. There are dedicated PreCheck lanes at over 200 airports in the US. Look for the TSA PreCheck signs when approaching security screening. If there is no dedicated PreCheck lane, a PreCheck line will be within the standard screening area.
Important: You need a PreCheck boarding pass to guarantee you’ll receive expedited screening. TSA always reserves the right to direct travelers to standard screening lanes. However, you’ll avoid PreCheck less than 10% of the time.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
⦁ What do I need to know to make a reservation?
To enable TSA PreCheck, give your name, KTN, and date of birth when making reservations. This verifies your known traveler status with TSA.
⦁ Does PreCheck work with mobile boarding passes?
You can use mobile boarding passes when utilizing TSA PreCheck screening, as long as it displays the TSA PreCheck indicator.
⦁ Do I have to re-apply after 5 years?
Your PreCheck membership is valid for 5 years. You’ll need to re-apply and pay the fee again once your membership expires to continue receiving expedited screening.
Quickly Add TSA PreCheck to the American
TSA PreCheck allows pre-approved travelers access to expedited security screening lanes at airports, saving you time and hassle. It requires enrollment in the TSA PreCheck program, which conducts a background check and provides a Known Traveler Number. Input this number when booking American Airlines flights, and your boarding pass will be coded for PreCheck eligibility.
Look for the TSA PreCheck symbol on your mobile or paper pass and head to the dedicated PreCheck lanes at the airport. When flying with American Airlines, you won’t have to remove your shoes, laptop, liquids, light coats, or belts if you have TSA PreCheck. By enrolling and adding your info to reservations, you’ll breeze through screening and get to your gate faster.
