TSA to Rollout Its Registered Traveler Program Later This Year

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) intends to rollout its Registered Traveler (RT) program in the second half of 2006 at 10 to 20 airports.

According to the agency, these airports will come on line as the private sector operators make the necessary business arrangements with host airports and air carriers and have their security configurations approved.  The TSA says it is phasing in the program's implementation so it can confirm the private sector's ability to provide interoperability among RT airports, evaluate alternative checkpoint processes on screening and wait times, and ensure that individual programs meet necessary security standards.

The initial implementation will gather operational experience that will benefit program expansion.  The program could operate on a national scale next year if there is sufficient demand, the TSA says.

While both the Department of Homeland Security and the TSA want the private sector to play a "strong operational role," they also want mandatory interoperability - such as compatible biometric standards among airport locations - an open technological platform that facilitates competition, and a central information management system, known as the Transportation Security Clearinghouse managed by the American Association of Airport Executives, that would have "robust safeguards" to protect personal privacy.

The TSA will retain responsibility for setting key program standards and security measures - such as physical screening at its checkpoints.

The goal of the program is to maintain security standards while improving passenger service.  Where layout and traveler volumes permit, RT participants will have a dedicated lane and will receive additional screening benefits.  While what might be available at each participating airport may vary, all RT travelers should receive an expedited and more convenient checkpoint experience, the TSA says.

The agency says it has received bids from companies wishing to assist in the development of the program's verification and validation standards, and expects to make an award by the end of the month.  04-24-2006.

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