OWBA

Hello there,

I often use my Avios to fly out of SEA on AS. While reward availability is excellent, the main downside is that having no elite status with AS, I get to stand in line for what can be quite a long time. Is there a way to buy fast track access separately (from AS or SEA), and if so, where? TSA Pre is unfortunately not an option due to my passport. Thanks!

eponymous_coward

Yeah, it's called "redeem your Avios or use cash for an F ticket and get premium cabin access to the TSA lines."



Do you have a US driver's license? Clear would work for that. It's available at SEA.

TSA Pre√ is a "pay-to-play" program already so I'm not exactly sure that there's a big market for "Hi, I'm not a US citizen and can't use the typical programs, I redeem Avios but I don't have status, and I'd like to cut to the front of the line and will hand you a wad of cash for that" outside of the mentioned options (pay/redeem for F, use Clear).

PS: there are SOME passports that will let you get Pre√ via Global Entry arrangements.

https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-t...l-arrangements

niele

I'm wondering from your post, eponymous_coward, that if you don't have TSA Precheck but do have a first class ticket you get to go through a different, faster security line at SEA?

OWBA

Well yes, you do. Same if you have oneworld Emerald status from BA and are travelling on AA Y. However, AS isn't oneworld, so that benefit unfortunately doesn't apply if you're flying with them.

Of course, Avios rules mean that spending them on domestic First within the US really isn't a good idea, so that's out of the question.

Scottrick

Alaska is currently offering its elite members some priority benefits on British Airways for a limited time. It's possible it will be extended and that there's some reciprocal action for British Airways elites on Alaska, but I'm only guessing.

https://www.alaskaair.com/content/de...h-airways.aspx

Otherwise, eponymous_coward is correct, the only way to gain access to the premium security queue (what the UK would call "Fast Track") is to have elite status or book a first class ticket. That's essentially buying it with Avios. Not a good price, but it's an option.

CLEAR is an alternative. It costs money to enroll and is also expensive IMO. Same security process but you move to the front of the ID check. Any US ID is eligible, including a permanent resident card or state driver license.

https://www.clearme.com/how-to-get-c...s-to-get-clear

PreCheck is a completely separate security process, cheaper than CLEAR and also better IMO. (The lines aren't as short, but that's because almost no one uses CLEAR at Sea-Tac right now.) But PreCheck has more stringent requirements. UK citizens and a few others should be able to enroll.

notquiteaff

You probably know that, but just in case... do you have a green card? If so, you are eligible to apply for Global Ehtry and thus would get Pre Check if approved for GE.

eponymous_coward

Premium line for F/MVPG.

I notice it while I go to Precheck...

rustykettel

Also AA PLT/EXP and any PDX or GEG shuttle pax.

woodway

There are premium security lines that status and First Class passengers can use. They are usually, but not always, faster than the regular security lines. You still have to take off your coat and shoes and pull your laptop and liquids in the premium lines.

niele

To both eponymous_coward and woodway, many thanks for the confirmation. I've thought about signing up for TSA Precheck but I'm never in that much of a hurry at the airport and it's fun people watching the folks in line.

bobblevins

If having MVP status would accomplish your goal, you could trade for that status with a Gold 75K member.