TSA expands Pre-Check program

The Transportation Security Administration's known-traveler program is being expanded to Las Vegas' McCarran International Airport, the agency said Wednesday.

The program, known as Pre-Check, allows passengers to volunteer information to the agency in exchange for the possibility of receiving expedited screening. TSA has been testing the program at airports in Dallas, Tex., Miami, Detroit, Boston and Atlanta.

The agency said Wednesday it would extend the ability to sign up for Pre-Check, which is part of its move to a "risk-based" security system, to passengers flying out of Las Vegas.

“I am encouraged by the positive passenger feedback and early results from this risk-based security initiative, and look forward to working with our airline and airport partners as we continue expanding and testing this concept,” TSA Administrator John Pistole said in a statement. 

“This system enables our officers to expedite the screening process for passengers we know the most about, while better focusing their efforts on higher-risk and unknown passengers," he continued. "As we continue to implement a system with multiple layers of security to keep the traveling public safe, we are dedicated to providing the most effective security in the most efficient way.”

Pistole has testified recently before Congress that Pre-Check and other risk-based programs like its behavior detection plans would improve passengers' travels experience. The agency has recently announced it would  reduce controversial pat-downs for children 12 years and under and eliminate specific images of passengers being scanned.

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