Apple is the Revolution! Passengers can now use their iPhones to pass through airport security —TSA

Thanks to a recent agreement between Apple and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), going through airport security will become easier!

On March 23, 2022, the two parties announced that they now allow some passengers to upload their state-issued ID to their Apple Wallet app and swipe through security using their iPhone or Apple Watch.

Individuals possessing state IDs or driver’s licenses issued by the State of Arizona will be able to add a digital version of their licenses or IDs to their Apple Wallet apps for TSA identity verification purposes from March 23. This makes Arizona the first state in the US to adopt this innovation.

TSA Administrator David Pekoske expressed how this technological advancement marks a significant milestone in improving airport security screening: 

“As mobile device technologies continue to advance and become more secure, TSA is committed to leveraging those technologies wherever possible to enhance airport security, reduce touchpoints, provide greater privacy protections to individuals, and facilitate greater accuracy in identity verification capabilities at TSA checkpoints." 

Until March 23rd, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was the only airport that accepted Apple Wallet versions of identification, and it was only available at a few select TSA security checkpoints. Nonetheless, TSA and Apple are working with 11 other states in the US to facilitate the development of this feature. These states include Georgia, Connecticut, Kentucky, Iowa, Maryland, Oklahoma, Utah, Colorado, Hawaii, Mississippi, and Ohio.

With this accomplishment, Phoenix Director of Aviation Services Chad Makovsky expressed his gratitude to TSA and Apple for partnering with them as they continue to pursue endeavors that will empower their passengers and provide an overall satisfaction in terms of travel experience. 

Moreso, this TSA-Apple partnership is said to be one of many initiatives aimed at reducing airport security waiting times.

But here lies the critical question: How does this airport security method work?

Unlike before, when passengers needed to present their physical IDs to security personnel, now, they can just tap their iPhone or Apple Watch at the TSA's Credential Authentication Technology reader to show their IDs. A TSA security officer will verify the passenger's identity and flight status for a more secure, convenient, and touchless identity verification experience.

You might also be wondering, “Is it completely safe for me to add my ID card to Apple Wallet?”

It is safer than it may appear!

While the innovation still needs to address vulnerability to security issues such as data leaks, Apple ensures users that adding their IDs to Apple Wallet will provide convenient transactions. 

If you forget to bring your physical wallet or choose to leave it safe in the hotel while you're out exploring, you don’t have to worry anymore because the latest innovation has it covered!