TSA unveils standards for frequent flier ID card

Airline Industry Information, Sept 22, 2006

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2006 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

Standards for an ID card that can be purchased by frequent fliers in order to pass through airport security lines more quickly have been unveiled by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the US.

The programme, which was tested around two years ago by the TSA and was due to start three months ago, was first authorised by Congress almost five years ago, according to The Associated Press.

The US public has been given two weeks to comment on the standards, which incorporate information security, enrolment, privacy and verification, and are in draft form at present.

The programme, known as 'Registered Traveler', would establish fast lanes at airport security for fee payers who have submitted ten fingerprints and passed a government check. Membership is expected to cost around USD100 per year, plus the cost of a background check, which is likely to cost a further USD100.

Airport participation in the programme is voluntary.

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