To combat increasingly long TSA lines due to staffing shortages and increased travel, many U.S. airports are implementing free virtual queuing systems. These programs, such as SEA Spot Saver at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), DEN Reserve at Denver International Airport (DEN), and MCO Reserve at Orlando International Airport (MCO), allow travelers to book a security screening time slot online in advance. Upon arrival at the airport, passengers present a QR code at a dedicated lane, much like a restaurant reservation, significantly reducing their wait times. For example, SEA Spot Saver operates daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Checkpoints 2 and 4, while MCO Reserve allows bookings up to 7 days in advance for flights departing between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. These programs are available at select airports including Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), Minneapolis (MSP), and JFK Terminal 4, though Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) discontinued its program in January 2026.
A separate, free option for travelers with TSA PreCheck is the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program. This system utilizes facial recognition for identity verification at dedicated lanes in approximately 65 airports. Instead of presenting a physical ID to an officer, enrolled passengers simply pause for a face scan. To use this, travelers must have TSA PreCheck, a valid passport uploaded to their frequent flyer profile with a participating airline (Alaska, American, Delta, United, or Southwest), and opt-in before checking in for their flight.
Paid services also offer expedited security. CLEAR+, a privately owned and operated service, allows members to use dedicated lanes and verify their identity via fingerprint, iris, or facial recognition for an annual fee of $99. This service aims to move the document check away from the government podium, reducing bottlenecks. While not available at all airports, CLEAR+ can significantly cut wait times, particularly at busy hubs like Atlanta, Denver, Los Angeles, and New York during peak travel hours, potentially saving frequent flyers several hours annually.
In a unique pilot program launched on June 1, 2026, Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is offering an off-site check-in and security screening option for select passengers. For a $9 fee each way, travelers flying Delta or JetBlue between 5:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. can check in, drop their bags, and clear TSA security at a remote terminal in Framingham, Massachusetts. They then board a secure shuttle bus that transports them directly airside at BOS, bypassing the main airport security lines entirely. Reservations for this service, which can be made up to 90 days in advance, are limited and recommended for booking ahead of time.
