MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — The days of needing to have your boarding pass ready to go before you pass through airport security are nearing an end.
Pittsburgh International Airport announced Monday that new technology is allowing airports nationwide to begin phasing out boarding pass checks.
The technology, known as Credential Authentication Technology, scans travelers’ government-issued IDs to verify their authenticity. The computer system then cross-references the data with the Transportation Security Administration’s vetting database to confirm passengers are listed on a flight that day. It also checks the No Fly List and Terrorist Screening Database.
>>STORY: Do you really need to spend the money for a Real ID?
A TSA spokesperson said about 500 CAT systems are expected to be installed at U.S. airports by the end of February, according to Pittsburgh International Airport.
Pittsburgh International Airport is one of several airports using the technology. Other airports include Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Charlotte Douglas International Airport and Miami International Airport.
You can customize your WPXI News App to receive news alerts. CLICK HERE to find out how.
While TSA agents are being trained, CAT systems are not being used in all lanes at security checkpoints.
One system has been installed so far at Pittsburgh International Airport, so other lanes still require travelers to have their boarding passes.
Now, more than ever, travelers will need to make sure the information on their boarding passes matches their government-issued IDs. The CAT system requires a 100 percent match: For example, “Jonathan” versus “Jon” won’t cut it.
>>STORY: States struggling to meet demand for Real IDs
“If it doesn’t [match], you’re going to be sent back to the check-in counter to have the airline re-enter your boarding pass with the name that matches your ID,” TSA public affairs spokesperson Lisa Farbstein said.
Boarding passes are still needed at gates to get on flights.
This browser does not support the video element.