In the realm of business travel, a term often begrudgingly discussed is friction. Business traveler friction is described as any negative impact that causes stress to a business traveler and thereby lowers their overall productivity and well-being as it relates to the purpose of their travel. This friction can be the result of a myriad of reasons, some of which are unavoidable and some of which can be mitigated by solutions that travelers and their organizations should be aware of.
One such solution to reducing friction in air travel is TSA Pre✔®, a program run by the Transportation Security Administration that promises to create a better air travel experience for all by connecting America’s trusted travelers with smarter security. TSA Pre✔® uses a risk-based, intelligence-driven approach to pre-screen travelers, thereby delivering the most effective security in the most efficient way.
Any organization looking to streamline the experience for their business travelers should encourage their employees to pursue this privilege if applicable. The benefits of TSA Pre✔® include:
• Expedited security screening for trusted travelers
• No need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets
• Family members ages 12 and under traveling with a parent or guardian who has TSA Pre✔® can accompany them in the expedited lanes
To apply, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents should follow these quick and easy steps:
1. Go online to tsa.gov. Complete the online application by entering basic contact information.
2. Schedule an in-person appointment. You can either make the appointment online or walk into an application center to apply in person. You must schedule your appointment within 45 days of completing the online application.
3. Visit a TSA Pre✔® application center to:
a. Provide required documentation and fingerprints. (A list of required documents can be found at tsa.gov).
b. Pay a non-refundable $85 fee, valid for five years.
After a traveler is approved, he or she will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) via U.S. mail within two to three weeks. This number is valid for five years. The traveler will need to enter the KTN each time they make an airline reservation. Once the reservation is made, they should look for the TSA Pre✔® indicator on their boarding pass and TSA Pre✔® signs at security checkpoints to locate the designated lanes.
It should be noted that if one is already a member of Global Entry, SENTRI, NEXUS, U.S. active duty military, a National Guard or reserve member, or a DoD civilian employee, then they are already enrolled and there is no need to apply. This also applies to select federal government employees.
If your organization or your travelers have questions or need assistance with obtaining TSA Pre✔®, please reach out to your Aires representative. Aires can place you into contact with officials at the Transportation Security Administration. Additionally, you can visit @AskTSA on Twitter and Facebook Messenger or call the TSA Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673.
About Aires
Aires delivers best-in-class global and domestic relocation solutions and mobility program management. Having been recognized by The Forum for Expatriate Management, the Better Business Bureau, and the Stevie Awards for organic growth methodology, excellent client/vendor partnerships, and leading-edge proprietary technology, Aires focuses on people, process, and technology to deliver world-class service. The company has also achieved ISO 9001, ISO 14001, FIDI-FAIM, C-TPAT, and Privacy Shield certifications and registrations. Clients are assured a focus on quality and customer service excellence when partnering with Aires. For more information, please visit www.aires.com.
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