United brings facial recognition to Seattle airport
TSA PreCheck travellers can now use face scans at Sea-Tac for quicker security access.
United Airlines has rolled out facial recognition at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, allowing TSA PreCheck passengers to pass through security without ID or boarding passes. This service uses facial recognition to match real-time images with government-provided ID photos during the check-in process.
Seattle is the tenth US airport to adopt the system, following its launch at Chicago O’Hare in 2023. Alaska Airlines and Delta have also introduced similar services at Sea-Tac, signalling a broader shift toward biometric travel solutions.
The TSA’s Credential Authentication Technology was introduced at the airport in October and supports this touchless approach. Experts say facial recognition could soon be used throughout the airport journey, from bag drop to retail purchases.
TSA PreCheck access remains limited to US citizens, nationals, and permanent residents, with a five-year membership costing $78. As more airports adopt facial recognition, concerns about privacy and consent are likely to increase.
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