TSA reveals new airport security rules that include $25 discount
The airport is about to become a tiny bit less stressful for some
Ellie Kemp
The TSA has unveiled the details of a new PreCheck discount for certain flyers.
If you’ve ever flown in the US, you'll have spotted the signs for TSA PreCheck.
It's a security screening program run by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that's designed to make airport security faster and less stressful.
Because let's face it - the airport run is a hassle, even at the best of times.
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Once approved, travelers can use dedicated lanes at more than 200 US airports.
It's more convenient, allowing users to keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on, and leave items like laptops and liquids in their bags.
It means travelers end up moving through security more quickly than in standard lanes.
To qualify, passengers normally have to apply, undergo a background check, and pay a fee - currently $78 for five years.
That works out as $15.60 per year - worth it if you're a regular flyer.
The fee covers the administrative costs of vetting applicants, as well as staffing and maintenance for PreCheck lanes.
Now, the TSA is offering a discount for military families in the 'Golden Age of Travel.'
Taking to their Facebook page, the TSA announced they're honoring 'those who serve and the families who stand beside them, in 'recognition of the enduring sacrifice of our military and their families.'
The new discounts includes $25 off PreCheck enrolment fee for spouses and free PreCheck for military survivor families.
There is also 'expedited access' for service members in uniform - and no need to enroll, with members being able to enter their DOD ID numbers for access.
This also includes 'dedicated lanes and front-of-line privileges at select airports.'
On their website, the TSA confirmed there is also a TSA PreCheck for 'qualifying disabled veterans' in the works.
"TSA is working with the Department of Veterans Affairs to offer free TSA PreCheck to certain disabled veterans under the Veterans Expedited TSA Screening Safe Travel Act. Veterans who will be eligible for the free enrollment include those who have a service-connected disability that resulted in "loss, or loss of use of an extremity, full or partial paralysis or permanent blindness, or as a result of the disability, they require the use of a wheelchair, prosthetic limb, or other assistive device to aid with mobility. They also must be in the patient enrollment system of the VA."
More information will be announced soon.
To find out more and check your availability, visit the TSA website here.