If you’re flying from the US to the UK, you’ll need to take steps to add TSA precheck to your Jetblue account. This security service helps to expedite your trip through security, so you can arrive at your destination faster. You will also be able to bring liquids and gels on board as carry-ons.
Known traveler number (KTN)
The TSA PreCheck program provides access to expedited screening at participating airports and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) checkpoints. Before checking in for a flight, you will need to input your Known Traveler Number.
This is a nine-digit number issued by the Department of Homeland Security. You can find your PASS ID at the Trusted Traveler Program’s website.
In order to apply for the TSA PreCheck program, you will first need to fill out an application. Applicants can also enroll online. Once your application is approved, you will receive a Known Traveler Number.
After you receive your Known Traveler Number, you will need to add it to your travel agency profile, airline account, and boarding pass. You can also enter it when making a reservation for a flight.
The KTN is the most important identifier for the TSA PreCheck program. During a PreCheck screening, you will be required to remove your laptop and 3-1-1 liquids. Having your Known Traveler Number makes it much easier for you to check into your flight.
If you are a AAdvantage(r) or NEXUS member, you can add your KTN to your travel profile. However, if you are not a member, you will need to add your PASS ID to your reservation.
When traveling, you should also be prepared to go through a name check. If you are not a citizen of the United States, you will need to undergo a background check. Normally, this process takes about three to five days.
Fortunately, there are several programs run by DHS that can help you secure your travel. These include NEXUS, Global Entry, CLEAR, and SENTRI. Each program is valid for five years.
Flight data shared with the airline
There are several reasons to be concerned about JetBlue’s decision to share flight data with a private company. One of the most compelling is that this may not have been the first time an aviation company shared information about its passengers with government agencies.
In fact, the company had already shared the data with a defense contractor. It was also known to share passenger records with industry analysts, according to an article in Businessweek.
However, it appears that JetBlue’s recent decision to share data with a private security firm has refocused attention on the federal government’s plans for an airline screening system. The project, which may be named the Computer Assisted Passenger Prescreening System II (CAPPS II), would use airline reservation data to flag individuals with links to terrorists.
According to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), a spokesman for the department of defense, a new airline profiling system may contain information from JetBlue’s flight data.
However, it’s still too early to determine if the data will be useful. Some analysts say that the data could help airlines better plan routes, pricing, and marketing.
JetBlue has also previously run facial recognition tests at several airports. This technology matches photos taken at the gate against facial recognition records already on file. A new trial at JFK commenced last November.
Other companies, including Delta, have tested facial recognition systems, but only for a limited number of flights. Only a handful of airports are using facial recognition to identify travelers, with the biggest players in the industry, including Heathrow and Atlanta, implementing the technology this summer.
However, there’s a catch. Neither airline has yet figured out a way to use the data to make the most of it.
Expedited security line
Adding an expedited security line to your itinerary is not for the faint of heart. Fortunately, it’s easier than it sounds. You can add the feature to your JetBlue flight as long as you pre-purchase it in advance. Using the lane is not free, but if you book a ticket with JetBlue, you get your $10 bill slashed. The airline also shares flight data with the TSA to help make sure you’re ready for a smooth checkpoint experience.
The best part about this new service is that it’s available at more than a dozen airports. To get it, you’ll just need to check in on the JetBlue app or via the customer service desk. Although it’s still a bit of a pain, you can shave more than half an hour off your travel time. In some cases, it may even be worth the hassle.
As long as you’re not rushing to catch your flight, the expedited lane will be a worthwhile proposition. Aside from a better than average travel experience, the perks of this new program include a less stressful trip. This is especially true if you’re traveling with kids. If you’re a JetBlue frequent flyer, it may be time to start thinking about adding the expedited lane to your travel plans. Whether it’s an afternoon business trip or a weekend getaway, the lane will keep your sanity and your wallet happy. And with more than 150 flights daily, you can’t go wrong. Plus, the aforementioned TSA PreCheck will save you the hassle of checking your luggage at the baggage claim. Getting there is half the battle.
Of course, if you’re flying United, your options are limited. However, they do have an expedited lane, though it’s not as fancy as the ones you’ll find on airlines like Southwest.
Liquids and gels allowed in your carry-on
Travelers are allowed to carry liquids and gels in their carry-on, provided they conform to TSA’s rules. However, there are certain exceptions. These include breast milk and infant formula.
Certain types of liquids are prohibited, including flammable liquids and gasoline. Passengers may bring only one quart-sized bag of liquids or gels on board.
There are also rules about carrying liquids and gels in your checked luggage. Liquids and gels that exceed 3.4 ounces can’t be carried on, so check the airline’s website to find out what is and isn’t permitted.
Some of the more common items permitted in carry-on bags are toiletries, makeup, and bottled water. However, travelers are not permitted to bring flammable liquids, solid lip balms, or devices that modify the functioning of an aircraft.
The rules about carrying liquids and gels in a carry-on vary from country to country. But, in general, all items must be 3.4 ounces or less, and be able to fit in a quart-size plastic bag.
Liquids and gels are generally subject to the same screening procedure as other carry-on items. Often, a TSA officer will swab the container to ensure there is no explosive material. If the agent notices an anomaly, the passenger may have to take the item out of the bag.
In order to get through security with carry-on liquids, make sure that your bottles are in a clear bottle. Otherwise, your package may be confiscated. Also, make sure your medication is clearly labeled and that all containers are spill-proof.
The Transportation Security Administration has a list of approved items that are permitted on board. Check this list before flying, and don’t forget to check non-US departure airports to see if there are any specific security requirements.