Quicker Airport Screenings Coming

Beginning Dec. 20, all active-duty and reserve-component service members no longer will have to take their shoes and belts off at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints in airports. Likewise, they can leave their laptop computers in their baggage. Under the newly streamlined security process, service members can enter their Common Access Card number into the “Known Traveler” field when they book airline tickets. The airlines, in turn, will forward that information to the TSA Secure Flight office. Then, when service members receive their boarding passes, the passes will carry a “TSA Secure Flight” logo at the top. The expedited security process does not apply to members of the Individual Ready Reserve, retirees, or Defense Department civilians. Non-military spouses and children over age 12 are not eligible either.