Overview
- American Airlines and the TSA activated the Touchless ID feature across all American hub airports, and TSA introduced the same PreCheck option at Houston’s IAH and HOU with multiple participating airlines.
- The system takes a live photo at the checkpoint and compares it to images already on file with the U.S. government, such as a passport, Global Entry, or a visa, so travelers do not need to hand over an ID or boarding pass.
- Eligibility requires TSA PreCheck and an opt-in through an American AAdvantage profile by saving a Known Traveler Number and valid passport details in the Secure traveler section, with a Touchless ID icon then appearing on mobile boarding passes when available.
- TSA says participation is voluntary and images are not used for law enforcement or surveillance and are deleted within 24 hours, though travelers must still carry a REAL ID-compliant credential if an officer requests it.
- At IAH, Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, and United are participating and at HOU, American, Delta, and Southwest are live, while American and TSA say the program already reaches 60 U.S. airports and will expand to more locations in the months ahead.