e-Gates Equal = Faster Security

Many summer travelers departing from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) will notice new self-serve technology that should speed up the security process for those with TSA PreCheck® or TSA PreCheck® Touchless ID.

CLT and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are testing eight e-Gates at Checkpoint 2 that will use facial matching technology to enhance security, improve checkpoint efficiency and enhance the passenger experience.

How it Works

Passengers enrolled in TSA PreCheck® will insert their driver's license or state-issued ID into the designated slot at the e-Gate, or place their passport or smartphone ID on the reader. A camera will then take their photo, match it to the document presented, and—after verifying a few other travel details, such as boarding and screening status—the gate will open.

Travelers who have opted into TSA PreCheck® Touchless ID through their frequent flier profile with participating airlines will have their photo taken and then pass through without presenting physical documents because their passport information is already on record.

The e-Gate operational assessment at CLT began in early May and will continue collecting data through July.

“CLT has invested in our security checkpoints, allowing us to test and try new things like e-Gates,” said CLT Federal Security Director Greg Hawko. “We hope it’s here forever because our team loves it, the passengers love it, and it gives us an opportunity to make the process more streamlined.”

Summer Travel Screenings Jump

On a typical day, Hawko says an average of 35,000 passengers pass through all three of CLT’s security checkpoints. In summer, that number is closer to 40,000 and can be as high as 44,000 daily.

While the e-Gates at Checkpoint 2 will shave about three seconds off the screening process for each passenger, they will also allow TSA officers previously stationed at the ID check to be redeployed to other high-need areas, such as physical bag checks, screening stations or responding to security alarms and incidents.