If you’re looking to skip the long lines at airport security checkpoints, it just got a lot easier for those flying out of Jackson.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and its PreCheck® provider, IDEMIA, are launching a new enrollment initiative at Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN) that will provide travelers with an easier way to apply for PreCheck.
“Instead of the normal process where you go online, fill out a form that captures your information…and then make an appointment at one of our facilities to come in and get your biometric screen—your fingerprint taken—we’re actually bringing the technology to the airport and you can do everything right there in person while you wait on your airplane,” IDEMIA CEO Donnie Scott explained.
Beginning on March 17 and running through March 28, IDEMIA enrollment staff will be available to sign passengers up for PreCheck in what will be a five-minute or less process. Most passengers will then receive their travel number within 3-5 days. Sign-up locations will be tested across three operational scenarios: pre-security, post-security, and in the gate area.
JAN will be the first airport to roll out the new enrollment initiative with airports like Houston, Atlanta, Dallas, and Nashville following suit later this year.
Congressman Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), who serves as Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, said he is excited for the airport to be the first.
“I am elated that Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport is the first to roll out this new TSA PreCheck enrollment initiative,” he said. “TSA PreCheck will provide constituents and others who are traveling the chance to advance through potentially long lines and have a successful flight.”
On top of a dedicated security line for passengers with TSA PreCheck, benefits include not having to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets before clearing security as well as the ability to leave laptops and TSA-approved liquids inside your bags.