The US government is to begin a trial of a new airport check-in initiative which it hopes will speed up security checks at airports.
The Department of Homeland Security has enlisted 10,000 volunteers to take part in the Registered Traveller programme which pre-screens passengers for potential security risks by storing their background and biometric data on a special card that can be used by the passenger to scan through the second round of security checks at airports.
Airlines have given their backing to the scheme which they believe will help them keep their business and frequent flyer customers. American Airlines, United Airlines, Continental Airlines and Northwest Airlines have all been paired with a different airport where the system will be used for their passengers.
The government has budgeted USD25m for the next two years for the programme but may impose a fee on airlines that use the system, reports Reuters.
