Airline Crew Identity to be Verified Through Biometrics

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has set the standards for the CrewPASS program, which will soon verify flight crew identity through biometrics.

Eligible flight deck crewmembers will enter a secure area via the exit lane of the security checkpoint after presenting their airline-issued identification and another form of ID to Transportation Security Officers (TSOs). An approved biometric will also be used to enhance identity verification. TSOs will check the credentials against the Cockpit Access Security System (CASS) database, which includes a picture and other information to verify the individual's employment status.

Flight deck crewmembers who utilize the program will also be subject to random screening, observation by behavior detection officers and other layers of security.

The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), developed the CrewPASS concept in 2007. The Association promoted the CrewPASS concept to Congress and to TSA shortly thereafter. In July 2008, TSA initiated a CrewPASS pilot program at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall, Pittsburgh International and Columbia Metropolitan airports.

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