International travel is getting easier for some passengers.
American Airlines has partnered with the Transportation Security Administration to pilot a new program that allows some international travelers to skip the usual TSA and customs rescreenings.
The first-of-its-kind program, known as One Stop Security, will allow passengers to go directly to their connecting flight after landing from abroad without reclaiming and rechecking their checked luggage, which will be automatically transferred to the connecting flight.
Per a Fox News report, Delta Airlines is expected to follow with its own trial beginning Wednesday, July 30, for passengers flying from London Heathrow to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
OSS is expected to streamline the travel experience by “leveraging advanced technology” to cut connection times by more than half, which typically includes clearing US Customs, claiming checked bags, rechecking bags and then clearing TSA security.
“One Stop Security is one of the most forward-thinking enhancements we can bring to international travel — and importantly, to our customers — as it delivers a level of convenience and time-savings that’s never been available before to customers connecting from international flights,” David Seymour, chief operating officer at American, said in a statement.
“With this game-changing program and thanks to our federal partners at CBP and TSA, along with DFW Airport, our customers will spend significantly less time worrying about an onerous connection process and more time enjoying their travel journey.”
The program is currently being tested through AA’s largest hub, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, and only with flights arriving from London Heathrow Airport.
Travelers traveling from London and connecting through Dallas will be able to clear customs right at the arrival gate.
American is the first airline to implement OSS at a US airport and “plans to explore opportunities to expand” the service to additional flights and airports in the future.
“One Stop Security is a smart, long-overdue step toward modernizing the travel experience, eliminating redundant screening, cutting connection times and unlocking more international air service,” US Travel President and CEO Geoff Freeman said in a separate statement.
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