New program can expedite security screenings

Some travelers will soon have a faster way to “clear” the security checkpoint at Pittsburgh International Airport.

Clear, a New York-based company that uses biometrics to verify a traveler’s identity to expedite checkpoint screenings, launched the service at the Findlay airport on Monday.

“Clear is so excited for the opportunity to help Pittsburgh travelers feel unstoppable along their journey — especially in time for the holidays,” CEO Caryn Seidman Becker said in a statement.

Pittsburgh becomes the 56th airport in the country to offer Clear, which charges travelers about $16 a month to provide access to the expedited “identity verification lanes.”

The company uses either a traveler’s eyes or a fingerprint to verify identity. That replaces the need for the U.S. Transportation Security Administration to manually view a photo ID or a passport before going through the checkpoint.

With the program’s start, Clear has its own dedicated security lane at the airport. Travelers who are members use a kiosk after entering the lane to verify their identity. A Clear representative will then escort the person to TSA for screening,

The program, however, does not allow travelers to bypass security altogether. They will still have to remove their belts and shoes and have their carry-ons and other items screened like other passengers.

Nonetheless, Christina Cassotis,

CEO of the Allegheny County Airport Authority, which operates Pittsburgh International, said that having Clear available to travelers supports the mission of “providing the best possible passenger experience.”

“We look forward to seeing our passengers take advantage of this increasingly popular service,”

she said.

The program is expected to create 28 jobs at the airport. The expedited lane is available from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Clear currently has nearly 19 million members. Of the airports in top 10 destinations from Pittsburgh, nine have Clear available, the company said.

Enrollment is open to anyone at least 18 years old with a government ID. Although a membership typically costs about $190 a year, discounts are available through Delta, United and Alaska airlines, and American Express.

Newly enrolled active military members, veterans and government officials also are eligible for discounts. Those interested can sign up at www.clearme.com. Travelers also can sign up at the airport.

Clear isn’t the only program available to help cut down on security waits.

The TSA also offers its PreCheck program, under which those enrolled don’t have to take off their shoes or belts or remove laptops or liquids from carry-on bags as part of checkpoint screenings. The fee to apply for that program is $78.