TSA PreCheck passengers flying on United Airlines will no longer require ID at select airports

According to . The airline now offers “Touchless ID” technology, allowing travelers to maneuver through security areas solely by scanning their faces, eliminating the necessity for physical ID cards or boarding passes. This innovation goals to enhance passenger comfort by streamlining safety procedures.

United’s contactless ID requires passengers to register by scanning their passports and adding known traveler numbers through the airline’s app. By providing consent during mobile check-in, you consent to facial scanning for identification purposes at contactless ID kiosks at the airport. Currently, this function is obtainable to individual passengers who’re over 18 years of age and have a reservation for one passenger. While the bag drop feature at O’Hare continues to be within the testing phase, United plans to expand contactless ID to additional counters, security checkpoints and boarding gates.

Delta Air Lines has already deployed similar technology in key hubs corresponding to Atlanta, Detroit and New York’s JFK and LaGuardia airports, offering dedicated touchless check-in counters. Clint Henderson, editor-in-chief of The Points Guy, praised the effectiveness, stating, “There was no need to wait.”

Looking ahead, the Department of Homeland Security envisions a broader “self-service” screening option that bypasses TSA agents entirely. The experimental program, currently being tested at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, combines facial screening and baggage scanning in modern “pods.” TSA emphasizes that any facial recognition images captured aren’t retained for long periods of time, emphasizing privacy and security.

As travel evolves towards seamless and contactless processes, these technological advances represent a big step forward in improving the efficiency and convenience of air travelers.