TSA Launches 'Self-Select Lanes' at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Aug. 28, 2008
Media Contact: Nico Melendez
877-561-6212 (pager)
PHOENIX – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today announced the expansion of its popular "Self-Select Lanes" program to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
"The opening of these new lanes is the result of a lot of hard work and truly demonstrates the commitment to partnership by Sky Harbor, its tenant airlines and the TSA," said Verdi White, TSA's Phoenix federal security director. "Since initial rollout, these self-select lanes have already increased throughput and helped thousands of passengers as they pass through the checkpoint."
Salt Lake City International and Denver International airports instituted the self-select lane program earlier this year and have seen an overall increase in throughput and customer satisfaction. Sky Harbor's self-select lanes are currently operational at the Terminal 4D security checkpoint, with plans to expand to other checkpoints in the near future. Sky Harbor is the 36th airport nationwide to implement the "Self-Select Lanes."
"We fully support the TSA in all efforts to enhance customer service for our passengers," said Deborah Ostreicher, Sky Harbor deputy aviation director.
The Self-Select Lanes program is comprised of a series of lanes designated by signage that direct passengers based on their travel needs and knowledge: Expert, for the business traveler who flies several times a month; Casual, for passengers that travel less frequently, but are familiar with the security process; and Family/Special Assistance, for passengers traveling with small children or strollers, elderly passengers and passengers who may need special assistance.
While expert travelers have experienced a significant reduction in wait times, TSA has also observed the family lane running more smoothly. By giving families more time to prepare for screening, fewer prohibited items are discovered during the screening process.
Airport selection is based on a number of factors, including checkpoint configuration, stakeholder support and passenger population.
To watch a video of the Self-Select Lanes in action, please visit www.tsa.gov. To view passenger response on this and other TSA innovations, visit www.tsa.gov/blog.
