**BREAKING: TSA Launches ‘Gold+’ Screening Program – What Travelers Need to Know**

BREAKING: TSA Launches ‘Gold+’ Screening Program – What Travelers Need to Know

WASHINGTON, D.C. – February 20, 2025 – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has officially launched a new premium security screening initiative, currently designated “TSA Gold+.” The program, which began operations at select major hub airports this week, represents a significant expansion of the agency’s risk-based security framework.

WHO: The program is available to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who are pre-enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program and have a clean criminal history and a documented record of no security incidents at airports over the past five years.

WHAT: TSA Gold+ offers an expedited, multi-layered screening process that includes dedicated security lanes, advanced credential authentication technology (CAT) for digital ID verification, and a reduced requirement to remove personal electronics and liquids from carry-on baggage. In contrast to standard PreCheck, Gold+ members will not be subject to random physical pat-downs and will only undergo metal detector screening, bypassing advanced imaging technology (AIT) body scanners entirely.

WHEN: The pilot program officially commenced at 6:00 AM local time on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). A nationwide rollout is anticipated for the third quarter of 2025, pending operational analysis.

WHERE: Initially, dedicated Gold+ lanes are operational in Terminals 4 and 5 at JFK, Terminal B at LAX, and Terminal 3 at O’Hare. TSA officials have not disclosed plans for additional locations beyond the pilot phase.

WHY: According to a TSA press release, the program is designed to “enhance efficiency and the passenger experience for the most trusted travelers” while