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TSA Pre-Check for United Airlines Passengers - Questions and Experiences (2013)

Old Feb 28, 2013, 4:53 pm
FlyerTalk Forums Expert How-Tos and Guides
Last edit by: dorisrpas
NEWS: PreCheck In Transition (Fall 2013)

As of the beginning of October 2013, PreCheck has begun its transition from a well-developed pilot program to a full-fledged part of TSA security. In the span of a couple of weeks, the TSA began offering some version of PreCheck at nearly every significant airport in the country and at additional checkpoints in airports that already had it. With the transition, you might notice some changes, including:
Increased Traffic - The TSA is increasing the number of people given access to PreCheck, by encoding PreCheck on more boarding passes, and by shunting "normal" travelers to the PreCheck line. Many of these folks are inexperienced with PreCheck, and might need some guidance about what they can keep in their bags. Help them out!
"Expedited Security" - Where traffic levels cannot support a dedicated PreCheck lane at a particular airport, checkpoint, or time of day, (or if a PreCheck passenger uses a different lane) the TSA is using a hybrid process that involves some but not all of the benefits of PreCheck screening. This means that you do not need to remove outerwear/shoes/belts, but you will still need to remove your laptop and liquids from your bag. You may receive some sort of card or sticker from the ID checker to indicate your eligibility to the TSA employees down the line.
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In order to keep this busy thread of use to UA travellers, please hold meta-discussion about the PreCheck program in the Practical Travel Issues and Safety Issues forum. Posts in this thread that are more topical to Travel Safety will be moved.

With thanks to FriendlySkies and the mods we've created the below text so we can all keep it up to date




TSA Pre-Check for United Passengers - Details & FAQs

How it works

In the Pre-Check lane, you no longer need to remove the following items:
  • Shoes (some, such as steel-toed shoes, may require removal)
  • 3-1-1 compliant bag from your carry-on (all liquid restrictions still apply)
  • Laptop from your bag (if electronics are stacked on top of each other, they require removal)
  • Light outerwear or jacket
  • Belt (large belt buckles may require removal)
  • Pre-Check Lanes are WTMD only-- No NoS in use ^

Note that a recent (October 2013) development is a hybrid "expedited security" lane at some lower-traffic airports and terminals without a full PreCheck lane (these will be denoted further down in this wiki). These lanes will allow travelers to continue through the WTMDs without removing shoes, belts, and outerwear, but because the X-ray machines are shared with non-PreCheck travelers, travelers will still need to remove laptops and liquids from their bags.

Travelers Eligible for Pre-Check

United offers MileagePlus members the opportunity to sign-up for Pre-Check access. To do so, you must sign in to your MileagePlus account on United.com, and click the button to Opt-In for Pre-Check. You will not receive any communication from United about your status in the program.

United will also unilaterally enroll MileageaPlus members in Pre-Check. Nothing else has to be done. You will receive communication from United when it unilaterally enrolls you.


If you are a member of one of the government Trusted Traveler Programs (Global Entry, NEXUS, or Sentri), enter your PASS ID in the box provided on United.com. By doing so, you can greatly increase your chances of receiving Pre-Check access on qualifying itineraries.

Note that only U.S. and Canadian citizens can qualify for PreCheck via a Trusted Traveler program. Non-citizen residents will not receive PreCheck via a Trusted Traveler program; however, non-citizens who have been invited to participate in PreCheck via an airline program may still receive PreCheck benefits. If this is the case for you, it's best to remove your Trusted Traveler program number from your airline profile so that TSA won't know your citizenship status. You may also be turned away from the PreCheck lane at the airport if you produce a form of ID that identifies you as a non-citizen.

Your PASS ID can be found either on your program card, or in your Global Online Enrollment System (GOES) account.





Starting December 20th, 2013
Pre-Check for Active Duty Members of the US Military

Starting on December 20th, 2013, active duty military, Reserve, National Guard and US Coast Guard will receive Pre-Check at all available airports.

To receive Pre-Check:
1. Look on the back of your CAC for your DOD ID number
2. Enter the number into the 'Known Traveler Number' field in your MP account (and any existing reservations, if they were made before entering the number)

It is unknown how tight the name matching is, but assume it is like for those who have Global Entry/NEXUS and make sure that the name on reservation matches exactly to your CAC.

More info here: http://blog.tsa.gov/2013/11/dodtsa-p...itary-tsa.html


How to Determine Pre-Check Access


It is not necessary to confirm Pre-Check acceptance in advance. Most airports have one of the two following set-ups:
  • A line guardian at the entrance to the Pre-Check line to verify whether your boarding pass qualifies
  • A pass-through gate at the TSA document checker to allow those who ended up in the Pre-Check lane but do not qualify for Pre-Check to cut to the front of the regular security line

Thus, if you do not have PreCheck, you'll just be redirected to the regular screening line.

However, many of us find it useful to verify in advance that we have been selected for Pre-Check in order to adjust our plans (arrival time at airport, accessibility of liquids and laptops in carry-ons, etc.) accordingly.

On OLCI, mobile (but not Passbook), and some kiosk printed boarding passes, the "TSA PreCheck" logo may appear at the top of your BP. This means you have been granted access for that trip.

If you are not seeing the TSA PreCheck logo, or if you just want to confirm that you will be receiving PreCheck benefits, you can also scan the bar code to verify using the following instructions:

There are two types of barcodes for the boarding passes that major airlines use. They are PDF417, which is used for counter or online boarding passes, and Aztec, which is solely used for mobile boarding passes.

Downloading an app to your iPhone, Blackberry, or Windows phone that supports Aztec or PDF417 will allow you to determine ahead of time if you have been granted Pre-Check access. The following links will allow you to download apps for scanning your boarding pass.

Paper Boarding Pass Scanning Apps

Android - Manatee, Aztec

iPhone - Manatee

(If using Manatee, be sure to enable PDF417 on the settings screen)

Mobile Boarding Pass Scanning Apps

Android - NeoReader - Aztec

Blackberry - NeoReader - Aztec

iPhone - Qrafter (preferred), NeoReader - Aztec

Windows Phone - NeoReader - Aztec

Once you download a supported app, and scan the barcode on your boarding pass, you should see a bunch of data that looks similar to this example:

LAST/FIRSTMR XXXXXXX DENMCIUA XXXX 000XXXFXXXX 15C>3180 MXXXXBUA 12345678901234 53 UA UA MP# *XXX 09 UAG
If you see a 3 in the position before "UA UA", then you will receive Pre-Check access. If there is a 0 in the spot, you will not receive Pre-Check access.

e.g. ...53 UA UA = Pre-Check
e.g. ...20 UA UA = No Pre-Check


Having Problems Utilizing Pre-Check?

If you belong to one of the Trusted Traveler Programs listed above, you may run into issues getting Pre-Check clearance if your Secure Flight Data is not an exact match to GOES.

For example, if your airline account has Bob Jones, but your GOES (the Global Online Enrollment System, which you use to sign up for a Trusted Traveler Program) account has Bob James Jones, then the TSA may not be associating your information properly, when it "decides" who can and can not have access.

TSA recently approved Pre-Check for use with international itineraries to specific countries. In practice, it seems that Pre-Check is (at least sometimes) working for international itineraries to other destinations as well. It remains to be seen whether international itineraries have a lower Pre-Check selection rate (higher "random" rejection rate) than domestic itineraries, but it may be a factor if you do not get Pre-Check access on a particular itinerary.

Airports with Pre-Check Lanes

United has added Pre-Check location indicators to their airport maps:

http://www.united.com/web/en-US/cont...s/default.aspx

TSA has again provided an alphabetical list of participating airports and this list includes operating hours. Note: United may be available at airports even though it is not specifically listed (e.g. DFW). Also, if you find that the hours listed on the TSA list are incorrect, please add corrections below under the appropriate airport:

Akron-Canton Regional Airport (CAK)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at the Main Checkpoint
  • Observed hours....: unknown

Albany International Airport (ALB)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at the Main Checkpoint
  • Observed hours....: Peak hours, approx. 4:30am - 7:15am, 10:00am-12:00pm per TSA agent
    Per passenger traveling NOV 09 2013 no PreCheck on weekends per TSA

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at the far right of A/B Concourse checkpoint.
  • Observed hours ....: unknown

Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at the South Checkpoint.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson International Airport (ATL)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at both the Main and North checkpoints.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: Pre-Check at North Checkpoint does not open until 5:00 a.m.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at Checkpoint 2, Lane 4.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at Checkpoint D in the Main Terminal
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
  • Pre-Check access is now located at both Terminal A (PMCO) and Terminal C (PMUA), as well as the US Shuttle checkpoint in Terminal B.
  • Since the Terminal C hours seem to be a big longer, there is a free airside shuttle operated by United to link to the terminals. The shuttle arrives/departs from Gate A9, to the left as you exit security, and all the way to the windows, next to Delta's A10.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: Open daily and from first flight to last flight

Bradley International Airport (Hartford-Springfield) (BDL)
  • The Precheck lane is located to the far right as passengers enter the inspection area.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
  • The new Precheck lane will be located to the left as passengers enter the inspection area.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
  • Pre-Check access is located at the security checkpoint closest to the United ticket counters (Main Terminal, Checkpoint B)
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
  • There are two PreCheck lanes in Terminal 1 (checkpoints #1 and 2), and one PreCheck lane in Terminal 2 (checkpoint #5). One is on the far left wall of the Premier Access Checkpoint by the GS lounge in Terminal 1 (checkpoint 2), the other is on the far right wall of the Premier Access Checkpoint by the LH counter (Checkpoint 1).
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: None

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
  • Pre-Check is located at the Main Checkpoint in Terminal 3
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
  • Pre-Check lanes are available at the Concourse C (United) checkpoint and Concourse B (Southwest/Delta) checkpoint in the Main Terminal. All concourses are connected behind security.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
  • DFW is not listed as a UA PreCheck station, but it is possible. The closest Pre-Check security point is a short walk away at E15 (checkpoint to the left of the Delta and Virgin check-in counters). UPDATE: There is now a Pre-Check station next to the UA counter, so you don't have to go to Delta. But the UA Pre-Check position is open only limited hours (4A - 8A, and noon to ??) UA flyers may use the DL Pre-Check which is open continuously.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none
  • [*]

Denver International Airport (DEN)
  • South Checkpoint now has two PreCheck lanes (East side and West side beside CLEAR) and North Checkpoint next to the CLEAR kiosks, Terminal West side.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: 6:00am-8:00pm, daily. South Checkpoint Terminal East was open at 5:35A

Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
  • Changed 6/22/16: Now the Pre-Check lane is located to the far left, at the only security station, which is up the escalators. It is a dedicated lane, with signage beginning already on floor below, funneling Pre-Check passengers to left escalator, which funnels to the U-shaped Pre-Check lane, with ID check either at beginning of U or in the middle of U (meaning, if you change your mind for whatever reason, you'll have to back upstream through the standing passengers to get out of Pre-Check area. Is full Pre-Check, liquids and laptops can stay in the bags. HOWEVER, there is only the one Pre-Check body scanner. So, because of configuration - if get dinged for random scan, hardware, or any other reason, will be patted down. Apparently the pat-down "type" will be randomly assigned (hands, hips, bags) via some protocol. If prefer to go through other machine, will have to swim back upstream thru all the waiting passengers to be waved through regular security.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: Is open all hours security is open.

Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
  • North Terminal, both checkpoints
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: None

Flint Bishop International (FNT)
  • "Expedited Security" only

Greensboro (GSO)
  • North Concourse
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours:None

Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT)
"Expedited Security" only

Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
  • Pre-Check lane is located at Checkpoint 5; the one closest to UA's check-in counters and the "Gold Lane"
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
  • The Pre-Check lanes are located at Terminals A, C, and E (Terminal C use South Checkpoint near the Premier check in area). Terminal E PreCheck only open 4:30am to 10am.
  • Pre-Check "Lite" available for eligible pax connecting from international flights to domestic (Terminal E). No priority lane, but allowed to keep shoes on for WTMD screening.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: "Expedited Security" for PreCheck passengers after listed closing time of 8pm.

Huntsville (Alabama) International Airport (HSV)
"Expedited Security" only

Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at Checkpoint A in the main terminal
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Kahului Airport (OGG)
Line closest to Hawaiian Airlines Checkin.

Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
  • Precheck lane is located on the far left side of the UA checkpoint - Elite line is on the far right
  • Hours not posted, though appears to be open for most if not all UA departures

Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA)
  • Precheck lane is located at the UA/US departures gate entrance
  • Hours were not posted but presumably aligned with at least redeye departures bank and possibly also afternoon departures

Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
  • Precheck is at the departure entrance to airside.
  • A single TSA scans boarding passes for both Pre and non-Pre with Pre passengers sent to the Pre line to the right. It's a bit awkward and requires passengers to queue well back of the TSA agent so Pre flyers can back up to the Pre entrance.

Las Vegas McCarran Airport (LAS)
  • Pre-Check access is in Terminal 3
  • Airport employee at the entrance will scan your boarding pass to determine if you are eligible for access.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Lihue (Kauai, Hawaii) Airport (LIH)
  • Pre-Check is located at the Main Checkpoint. The Pre Entrance is on the left side of the screening area as you face the terminal
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Lincoln Airport (LNK)
"Expedited Security" only

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
  • The Pre-Check lanes are located at both T6 and T7 checkpoints.
  • Enter from the Premier Check-In Lobby in Terminal 6, then walk to the checkpoint between Terminals 6 & 7, or if you're leaving from a gate in the 60's you can use the T6 checkpoint.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Louisville International Airport (SDF)
  • The Pre-Check lane is at the main terminal security checkpoint (the only checkpoint at SDF).
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Madison, WI (MSN)
At the bottom and the top of the escalator that leads to security (and to the gates) you will see a PreCheck sign. Just as you reach the top of the escalator, walk straight ahead to the line that is clearly marked.

ManchesterBoston Regional Airport (MHT)
  • TSA is starting to setup Pre-Check at the main MHT security checkpoint. There are signs for a lane and while the lane was not operational exactly, you might still be screened as pre-check there (positive experience on 10/10/2013).
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: Not listed on TSA website yet.

Memphis International Airport (MEM)
  • The Pre-Check lane is at B Checkpoint.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Miami International Airport (MIA)
  • "Expected Security" at UA's checkpoint G
  • Shoes, belt stay on; WTMD; laptop comes out of bag

Midland International Airport (MAF)
"Expedited Security" only

MinneapolisSaint Paul International Airport (MSP)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at Checkpoint 4, near Door 3
  • If you're facing the UA ticket counter, it's the first checkpoint to the left
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Mobile Regional Airport (MOB)
"Expedited Security" only

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)
  • "Expedited Security" only

Nashville International Airport (BNA)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at the main checkpoint.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
  • Located at checkpoints C1 (right side), C2 (left side; as opposed to what's listed on TSA website), and C3 (left side)
  • Terminal A now with slightly expedited service (shoes on, but no other changes)
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: closes at 6:00pm on Fridays; C1 open on Saturday at 9:00pm

New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY)
  • Located at the Terminal D checkpoint

New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
  • "Expedited Security" in Terminal 7, uses Premium Passenger security lane
  • PreCheck verification by TSA agent before directed into the PreCheck-designate security lane
  • Currently requires removal of laptop and liquid

New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
  • Central Terminal Building (Terminal B), Concourse C checkpoint
  • Lanes from left to right are: Pre-Check, Premier/Elite, everybody else
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: TBD

Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA)
"Expedited Security" only

Oklahoma City Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)
  • West security checkpoint

Orange County/Santa Ana John Wayne Airport (SNA)
  • Pre-Check is now also at located at Terminal B (United), but only Mon-Fri 5:00am-7:00am and Sat-Sun 6:00am-8:00am. Pre-Check is still available at Terminal A (right side, with clearly signed entrance) 5:00am-9:00pm daily.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Orlando International Airport (MCO)
  • Pre-Check is live for AA/UA/US passengers at the Gates 1-59 checkpoint
  • Located on the left side of the checkpoint, next to the CLEAR kiosks.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Philadelphia International Airport
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at Checkpoint D.
  • The USAir Pre-Check lane is located at Checkpoint C lane 5. This lane also accepts passengers with UA Boarding Passes.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
  • The Pre-Check lane is on the far left when approaching security..
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at the main checkpoint
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Port Columbus International Airport (CMH)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at Checkpoint B to the far left
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Portland International Airport (PDX)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located on the far left of the ABC Checkpoint, and as of Sept 30, 13 the far right of the DE Checkpoint
  • Lane shared with the First Class/Premier line
  • After clearing security head to right towards C terminal. The concourse connector is before gate C2 on the right. It will bring you to the D/E side where UA departs from.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Portland International Jetport (PWM)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located the main checkpoint (all gates)
  • Observed hours: Closed on Saturday morning. TSA said not enough staff or demand to keep it open off peak, but they will give an expedited card if the Pre lane is closed.


Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at the Terminal 2 Checkpoint, on the far left side.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Pre-check lane for United passengers is located at main security entrance at the Concourse B to the far right.

Rochester International Airport (ROC)
Pre-check lane located at main security entrance

Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
  • Precheck located at terminal A main security, to the left near the crew and priority lanes. Terminal B PRE is in the works...supposedly.
  • According to TSA representative it's only operational from 4:30-6am right now to coincide with the early AM departures bank. They are lobbying for more staffing to have it open all the time in the future.
  • When Pre isn't open, passengers should qualify for pre-Jr. which is laptops/liquids out, shoes/jackets on, metal detector only if showing PRE on their boarding passes.

Saginaw, MI - MBS International Airport (MBS)
"Expedited Security" only

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
  • The Pre-Check lane for UA is located at Terminal One. Only open 5-8AM and 3:30 to 5pm at T1. The Terminal 2 checkpoint is open more hours and you can use either checkpoint and connect airside.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

San Diego International Airport (SAN)
  • The Pre-Check lane for UA is located at the T2 checkpoint (on the left hand side?); opened Oct 10 '13.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: ?

San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  • The Pre-Check lanes for UA are located at the Premier checkpoint in T3 (the one closest to the international terminal), along the far left wall of the checkpoint, at the security entrance nearest to gate 71 (in the middle of T3), and at T1 for any United Express flights departing from there.
  • Dedicated Pre lane now open at Terminal G (International). Located to far left as you face security. Hours unknown.
  • Premier checkpoint verifies eligibility at the beginning of the line by scanning the BP
  • Central T3 checkpoint verifies eligibility by confirming the PreCheck logo on the BP - Passbook BP will not work until the precheck logo issue is resolved.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

San Jose International Airport (SJC)
  • The Pre-Check lanes for UA are located at Terminal A checkpoint (UA/AA/DL/US/VX terminal) along the far right side of the checkpoint.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: Site is not listed on TSA website but is in full effect.

San Juan, Puerto Rico Luis Muoz Marn International Airport (SJU)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located in the Main Terminal at Checkpoint 4
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: reports of going thru as early as 4:15am on a Saturday

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
  • There are Pre-Check lanes at all checkpoints at SEA except checkpoint 1 (which is only open very limited hours specifically for cruise ship pax). The closest checkpoint to the UA gates is checkpoint 2. All checkpoints at SEA are open 4am to 8pm except checkpoint 3 (center) which is open 24 hours. But PreCheck hours at #3 are limited to what's shown at the TSA website.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Southwest Florida International Airport / Ft. Myers (RSW)
  • Pre-Check lane available at C Concourse (United/Delta)
    Hours unknown. May get Pre-Check "Lite" depending on demand.

St. Louis - Lambert International Airport (STL)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located at Terminal 1, Concourse A
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR)
  • The Pre-Check lane is located to the far right, at the only security station, which is up the escalators. It is a dedicated lane and is full Pre-Check, liquids and laptops can stay in the bags.


Tampa International Airport (TPA)
  • The Pre-Check lane is on the right, next to priority security lane.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Tulsa International Airport (TUL)
Pre-check lane located at main security entrance

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
  • Pre-Check is located in the center of the departures level in the main terminal (near Harry's Tap Room)
  • If you do not get Pre-Check, you can still utilize the screening lanes adjacent to the Pre-Check lane. Those lanes feature one WTMD and one MMW scanner.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: none

Washington Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
  • United travelers can access the Pre-Check lane in Terminal C (South Pier). The entrance is located on the far right of the checkpoint.
  • Observed hours that differ from TSA's hours: Closes at 6:00pm

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
  • United travelers have access to Pre-Check lane

West Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
  • United travelers have access to Pre-Check "Lite" at Terminal A/B Checkpoint.
  • According to TSA's hours Hours are 04:30AM - 06:00PM.


Airports Scheduled to Come Online in 2013

Note: Some of these airlines are already online, though they are not setup at the checkpoints for UA gates.
  • New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)


This thread replaces the original Pre-Check thread.
Print Wikipost

TSA Pre-Check for United Airlines Passengers - Questions and Experiences (2013)

Old Nov 12, 2013, 9:09 pm
  #3766  
 
Join Date: Jul 2013
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Originally Posted by bldr1k
Really?

I've never taken off my belt going through precheck.
Ya, I was wearing one with more than a key ring worth of metal in it. A bit annoying since I had it on and then my stuff was going through and there were not little round tubs so I just threw it on the conveyer and walked through.

I figured given the instructions and info about PreCheck it would have been fine unless it was something the size of a Grand Nationals Championship cowboy buckle.

I'm assuming I'll be going through the same lane this coming Tues so will report back.
JVPhoto is offline  
Old Nov 12, 2013, 10:10 pm
  #3767  
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SEA this morning, 10:00 a.m. Checkpoint 2.... About 20 folks in the line, 18 of them utterly clueless.

PDX (ABC gates) at about 1:30pm. 30 folks in line, at least 25 of them utterly baffled and asking questions, and taking off this and that. TWO Pre-Check lines, one of them a NOS and one a WTMD.

I told the officer that it sure was nice while it lasted to have only "pros" in the Pre-Check line. He said that they've been told that TSA's goal is to have "80% of pax going through Pre-Check by this time next year."

Ugh.
cblaisd is offline  
Old Nov 13, 2013, 5:45 am
  #3768  
 
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0650 EWR C3 - 20+ people in line. Clueless would be a compliment. TSA trying desperately to get everyone to understand the rules and process. No one listening. Belts off. Shoes off. Laptops out. Frustrating for us non-kettle and equally frustrating for the TSOs who were honestly trying to expedite things and help. There were actually people on the precheck line with the precheck logo on their BPs who were unaware of why they were sent to the. IMHO oblivious despite help = back of the other line! please...
meducate is offline  
Old Nov 13, 2013, 7:18 am
  #3769  
 
Join Date: May 2011
Posts: 5,814
At MCO -- they had a dedicated TSA agent watching us and advising specific people if we started to take things out of the bag or taking off our shoes. Seemed to work well...

I've seen the EWR clustermess but (at the time) I was surrounded by clueless people + there was no one there to tell them anything (except me).
edcho is offline  
Old Nov 13, 2013, 8:36 am
  #3770  
 
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Originally Posted by cblaisd

I told the officer that it sure was nice while it lasted to have only "pros" in the Pre-Check line. He said that they've been told that TSA's goal is to have "80% of pax going through Pre-Check by this time next year."
So rather than just join the rest of the world by eliminating shoe removal and other nonsense they continue the charade by slowly transitioning everyone into a new system. I guess it's good that we're headed towards less needless scrutiny at the checkpoints but the path to get there is its own circus.
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 8:40 am
  #3771  
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I fear what Thanksgiving and Christmas travel are going to look like, if they continue this mess.
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 8:55 am
  #3772  
 
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Originally Posted by mgcsinc
I always take mine off, because it sets off most WTMDs. I do it before I get to the checkpoint, to save the yes-I-know-what-I'm-doing back-and-forth with other PreCheckers.
My dress shoes all have steel shanks in them so I have to take them off. I occasionally get people who are adamant that I shouldn't take them off (sounds like mgcsinc has this experience as well). I just tell them there are steel shanks in them.

Originally Posted by edcho
At MCO -- they had a dedicated TSA agent watching us and advising specific people if we started to take things out of the bag or taking off our shoes. Seemed to work well...
Saw this at MCO last Wednesday, most of the 4 people in front of me in the Pre line had no idea about the different rules, but the TSA agent was doing a good job informing them of the rules without barking. It was still a way more pleasant experience than the regular lines at MCO, which are a complete zoo.
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 9:05 am
  #3773  
 
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Originally Posted by cblaisd
I told the officer that it sure was nice while it lasted to have only "pros" in the Pre-Check line. He said that they've been told that TSA's goal is to have "80% of pax going through Pre-Check by this time next year."

Ugh.
So, does this mean the TSA expects that 80% of passengers will have GE or have paid/applied to their program? Or will having a passport be enough? But then why encourage FF getting Pre-check through the airlines to apply for the TSA Pre-check? From TSA website, bolding mine. Apologies if this has been discussed here earlier - I've tried to keep up but the thread has gotten away from me ...

Current TSA Pre✓™ participants, including those eligible via a CBP Trusted Traveler Program such as Global Entry, will continue to receive TSA Pre✓™ eligibility. Participants who opted-in through their airline frequent flyer program may want to consider applying for TSA Pre✓™, as they are more likely to be selected for TSA Pre✓™ expedited screening more often if they are vetted via the TSA Pre✓™ application process.

Enrollment locations, contact information and hours of operation will be available fall 2013.

Latest revision: 29 October 2013
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is announcing plans to implement a TSA Pre✓™ application process. The TSA Pre✓™ fee-based application process will allow U.S. citizens the opportunity to apply for expedited screening without a passport.
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 9:10 am
  #3774  
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Originally Posted by dorisrpas
So, does this mean the TSA expects that 80% of passengers will have GE or have paid/applied to their program?
Highly doubt it. I expect that they will simply be randomly -- excuse me, "managed inclusionishly" -- sticking clueless people in the line. I can't imagine how this is the same level of "security" as having Pre-Check for for those who have gone through the Global Entry background check process.

But, I suppose this is getting afield from experience with United and Pre-Check.
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 9:15 am
  #3775  
 
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Originally Posted by cblaisd
Highly doubt it. I expect that they will simply be randomly -- excuse me, "managed inclusionishly" -- sticking clueless people in the line. I can't imagine how this is the same level of "security" as having Pre-Check for for those who have gone through the Global Entry background check process.

But, I suppose this is getting afield from experience with United and Pre-Check.
I agree, that is how it seems to be. But I just don't get, then, what the motivation is for anyone to apply to the TSA Pre-Check program? Make appointment at distant airport, interview, fingerprints ... What will benefit be of that? Unless it is meant for those who don't have US passport?

At the moment, it is a cluster. Pre-Check this morning at CLE was longer than Premier line, about 50% FF and 50% older folks, with one "You don't have Pre-Check so you have to go into the other line" older gentleman.
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 9:54 am
  #3776  
 
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And they're pushing ignorant people to PreCheck. And expecting them to "enjoy" PreCheck so they'll get themselves "trusted" (by paying $85 or $100 or whatever)?

And then after going through PreCheck they still didn't know what's PreCheck, and that they just went through PreCheck! So much for good intention...
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 10:56 am
  #3777  
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Originally Posted by dorisrpas
So, does this mean the TSA expects that 80% of passengers will have GE or have paid/applied to their program? Or will having a passport be enough? But then why encourage FF getting Pre-check through the airlines to apply for the TSA Pre-check? From TSA website, bolding mine. Apologies if this has been discussed here earlier - I've tried to keep up but the thread has gotten away from me ...
No, they are expecting their combined efforts to get 80% of people through it. One component is the stand-alone program and those who apply for it. Another is increased data mining-- risk assessments based on data other than FF travel history which was (until recently) the only metric apart from traditional government databases for exclusion purposes.
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 10:59 am
  #3778  
 
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TSA Security @ MCO in Premier lanes - no need to remove shoes, belt etc?

Is this a new Federal policy nationwide?

I was in the Premier lane TSA security checkpoint in Orlando

Somehow I was in a subsequent lane where I didn't need to remove my shoes, belt, etc.

Also, my laptop was able to stay in its case

Just curious - as this had never happened to me before. Also other people in the same line were just as confused - some people still were taking shoes off when the TSA agents were telling us we didn't have to

Just curious if this is a nationwide new thing?

Its almost like having "pre-check" approval... but I never applied for this???
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 11:02 am
  #3779  
 
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You probably got shunted to a Pre Check lane, there have been reports of this happening here and there when the Premier lanes get clogged up, TSA agents have been throwing people at random into Pre Check lanes.

If you ask me, it defeats the purpose of Pre Check, but I would prefer a return to Pre 9/11 security myself across the board so I don't really care.
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Old Nov 13, 2013, 11:02 am
  #3780  
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sounds like the PreCheck-lite that has been implemented in many previous without PreCheck or the practice of randomly selected non-PreCheck passengers for PreCheck.


See http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/unite...es-2013-a.html
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