US proposes facial recognition system at airports in exchange for travelers' facial features

The US government has introduced a new scheme for travellers, called TSA PreCheck, offering faster airport security lanes. This initiative, however, has sparked a heated debate among Americans, with concerns over privacy, efficiency, and potential security risks.

Under the proposed scheme, eligible travellers can walk directly to the luggage X-ray machine instead of queuing to have their passports checked. To use the faster lanes, travellers must agree to have their face scanned and be TSA PreCheck members with a valid Known Traveller Number and be enrolled in an airline loyalty programme. Travellers must also have a valid passport to participate.

A bipartisan group is pushing back against TSA lobbying, with Republican 'privacy hawks' such as John Kennedy arguing that the agency's tactics are excessive. Critics warn of potential machine errors, bugs, and maintenance issues as the system is scaled up. The TSA claims that its database is encrypted and passengers' information is protected, but concerns about further breaches remain.

These new lanes, called touchless lanes, are separate from the regular ones and are currently available at 15 airports across the USA. Airlines for America, which represents major carriers including United, Delta, and American, argue that the bill would 'increase wait times considerably'. Airlines and technology suppliers are lobbying hard against restrictions in the bill.

Democrat Jeff Merkley has warned against the creation of a 'surveillance state' reminiscent of those in China or Hungary. internal rifts exist within the DHS: while Secretary Kristin Nielsen supports the bill, TSA officials have reportedly expressed 'significant concerns'.

In 2019, photos of US travellers were compromised due to a DHS subcontractor hack. American citizens show mixed attitudes toward giving up their privacy for faster airport security screenings; some prioritize convenience and expedited checks, while others remain concerned about privacy and data security. Surveys often indicate a trade-off sentiment, where a significant portion accepts some privacy loss for enhanced security and speed, but a sizable minority resists extensive surveillance measures due to privacy rights concerns.

The prospect of faster airport security through biometric data is appealing to some, while others view it as a step towards a surveillance state. The outcome may be determined by Congress's next move. Airlines have rejected the measures proposed in the Senate bill, citing efficiency and speed as reasons. For now, passengers can still request a manual ID check instead of having their face scanned.

The Senate bill proposes that scans should only verify identity and be erased immediately after the check is complete. The bill also states that airlines should clearly inform passengers of their right to refuse having their face scanned. The future of TSA PreCheck and its touchless lanes remains uncertain, with ongoing debates and concerns shaping its potential implementation.