I was selected for my second TSA PreCheck experience yesterday at Washington National Airport (DCA). I was flying Delta (which I believe to be the only airline currently offering PreCheck at DCA), and as a Gold Medallion, accessed the Sky Priority line. There was no wait to meet the ID checker, who scanned my paper boarding pass with the same machine used for mobile boarding passes. The agent asked if I was familiar with PreCheck, I stated yes, and off I went.
The PreCheck area has a wall separating that line from the rest of the security apparatus. No need to remove anything, though I did remove my belt because it contained just enough metal to make the detector alarm. Laptops, 3-1-1 bags, etc. all remain in their bag, and you keep your shoes on. I walked through without alarming, collected my things and proceeded to the benches outside the checkpoint to wait for MrsMJonTravel who was not selected for PreCheck. Data point – I waited for 5 additional minutes for MrsMJonTravel. My entire security experience (from ID check to walking away) using PreCheck – 1 minute.
The verdict – After just 2 PreCheck experiences, I am a fan! Here’s a link to the TSA website that lists the airports and participating airlines that offer PreCheck.
It only took me reading it one time, to get your point.
Thanks for the write-up
Always remember that PreCheck qualified travelers will be randomly selected to be denied PreCheck on any given flight (and have to go through regular TSA screening).
@Mark, I was simply sharing my experience for those that might not have had the opportunity to try PreCheck yet.
I read the post twice. Not exactly sure what your point is. Is your point that pre-check is faster than the regular line?