Facial Recognition Expands in Airports as Congress Eyes New Limits

August 15, 2025

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented facial recognition technology for security screening at 15 major U.S. airports through its PreCheck Touchless ID system. This technology allows enrolled TSA PreCheck travelers with valid passports to verify their identity with a facial scan rather than physical identification documents. Simultaneously, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has expanded its biometric processing with Enhanced Passenger Processing at Nashville International Airport.

Who is affected

TSA PreCheck travelers with valid passports at 15 major airports
International travelers passing through Nashville International Airport
Air travelers whose biometric data might be collected
Higher-risk passengers who receive additional screening
Legitimate visitors who benefit from more efficient processing

What action is being taken

TSA is implementing PreCheck Touchless ID facial recognition technology at 15 major U.S. airports
CBP is expanding biometric processing with Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) at Nashville International Airport
Biometric images are being deleted within 24 hours of flights according to TSA protocols
Lawmakers are proposing the Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025 to increase biometric data protections

Why it matters

The technology aims to create a more efficient and seamless travel experience by replacing physical ID checks
Privacy concerns exist, especially after a 2019 breach where traveler photos were stolen from a subcontractor's network
The biometric systems allow officers to focus resources on higher-risk passengers
The technology represents a significant shift in how traveler identity verification is conducted at U.S. airports

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint