TSA implements new technology that can make getting through airport security easier

Even if you have TSA PreCheck or Clear, getting through TSA is a generally disliked part of flying. The Transportation Security Administration, however, is implementing new technology at checkpoints nationwide that could cut some time at the lines.

The Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) allows travelers to get through security without showing a boarding pass or, in some cases, even a physical ID, according to Travel + Leisure.

The outlet spoke with a representative from TSA about the scan systems that could get you to your gate a little earlier.

“Automated biometric technology can play an important role in increasing aviation security effectiveness, particularly at the airport checkpoint, by enhancing current manual identity verification procedures. Identity management is a central element to security screening,” said the TSA spokesperson. “TSA is working to ensure that its biometric capabilities align with leading standards for identity assurance to strengthen vetting outcomes and identity verification. Participation is entirely voluntary.”

The machines come in two forms: a CAT-1 machine, a high-grade document scanner, and the more advanced CAT-2 machine, which uses facial recognition. Each version of the CAT uses biometric and digital information to identify passengers, but they have notable differences, functions, and availability.

The official TSA website states that both machines aim to “improve the travel document checker’s ability to accurately authenticate passenger identification and pre-screening status, addressing the vulnerabilities associated with ID and boarding pass fraud.”

Travel + Leisure detailed the differences between the machines.

CAT-1 Machines

CAT-1 scanners have been implemented in nearly 200 airports nationwide since 2019. The CAT-1 scans and analyzes a passenger’s photo ID and then automatically confirms their flight details through the Secure Flight database and their pre-screening status (like if they have TSA PreCheck) in real-time. This real-time check eliminates the need to show an agent their boarding pass before entering the screening area. The outlet states the machine can accept several kinds of identification, including a driver’s license, a passport, a permanent resident card, and more.Presenting a physical or digital boarding pass at the gate is still required for passengers to board their flight.

CAT-2 Machines

Like its predecessor, the CAT-2 units scan a traveler’s photo identification and match it with their flight details. Unlike the first CAT-1, the CAT-2 units also have a camera that can compare the photo ID with a real-time passenger photo. According to the TSA, the new technology has a built-in reader capable of scanning a state-issued digital driver’s license or digital identification card. The new CAT-2 units are still in the testing stages at participating TSA stations. The technology can be found in 16 domestic airports, with plans to expand to 28. The participating airports include Baltimore (BWI), Virginia (DCA), Atlanta (ATL), Dallas (DFW), Phoenix (PHX), Denver (DEN), Salt Lake City (SLC), San Jose (SJC), Gulfport-Biloxi and Jackson in Mississippi (GPT and JAN), Miami (MIA), Las Vegas (LAS), Los Angeles (LAX), Boston (BOS), Detroit (DTW), and Orlando (MCO). Passengers can decline to have their picture taken by the CAT-2 machine and can proceed with traditional TSA identification review.

These advanced scanning systems will become the norm for TSA in the future. Travel + Leisure reports TSA has started rolling out full-size Computed Tomography (CT) X-ray systems. These systems can create 3D images of carry-on items, allowing officers to detect weapons, explosives, and other banned items. These new machines aim to speed up security and allow travelers to keep more of their belongings in their carry-on bags.

Martie Bowser is a journalist and public relations professional in Charlotte, NC. She enjoys amplifying the voices of POC and women that fill a void within their community. Her favorite things to cover include “person of interest” pieces, small business highlights, pop culture commentary, entertainment features, and everything about Beyoncé. Her bylines can be found in Blavity, Black Excellence, Signature Bride, Black Wall Street Times, and HipHop Weekly. Martie can be reached via email at martiebowser@detourxp.com.

This story was originally published May 23, 2023 at 11:00 AM.