Many travelers used to complain about the need to wait in line at TSA security checkpoints. After almost a year-and-a-half of travel being shut down or severely halted, airports are experiencing long lines at security checkpoints, but this can only mean one thing: travel is back, so don’t complain!
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is actively hiring more officers to meet the increase in traveler volume but while this ramp-up in staffing is in progress, travelers should allow themselves ample time to clear TSA security formalities nationwide.
A New Post-Pandemic Record
On June 11, the TSA screened over 2 million passengers nationwide, marking the first time this milestone was reached since March 2020. This figure still represents only three-quarters of the daily number of passengers screened pre-pandemic, but no matter, this is a great step in the right direction for the recovery of travel in 2021!
Don’t Forget to Download the MyTSA App
As TSA authorities adjust staffing numbers, travelers should allow some additional time to pass through TSA security checkpoints and consult the MyTSA app for up-to-date wait times.
The MyTSA app provides airline passengers with 24/7 access to airport security information. The app also shares some helpful tips for preparing for security, including a searchable database of items that can and can’t go in checked or carry-on bags.
Currently, the most popular feature of the app is the ability to check delay information and current weather conditions at airports nationwide. The app has the neat capability to check how busy an airport is likely to be for your specific departure time based on historical data.
The app also lists what airports and airlines support TSA PreCheck and gives users directions on how to register for the program.
Finally, the MyTSA App is integrated with TSA’s AskTSA social media live assistance department where you can literally as a TSA officer a question related to an upcoming trip. This feature is available on Twitter and Facebook Messenger as well.
US Will Honor Certain Expired Passports for Re-Entry
We’ll finish our round-up with some news from TSA’s colleagues at the US State Department and Customs & Border Protection.
Due to delays in passport processing, the US State Department recently announced that US Customs & Border Protection officers will accept certain expired US passports from American citizens who are currently abroad and returning home. Passports that expired on or after January 1, 2021, will be honored for re-entry to the United States through December 31, 2021