Tri-Cities Airport needs more prescreened passengers

The Port of Pasco is encouraging travelers to sign up for the Transportation Security Administration’s prescreening program to expedite their trips through the Tri-Cities Airport.

Those who qualify pass more easily through airport security screening. And if the numbers warrant it, the Tri-Cities Airport could qualify for a dedicated screening lane for prescreened passengers when the current expansion project wraps up in 2017.

The TSA’s program allows travelers to wear their jackets and shoes and to keep their laptops and liquids in their bags. At Pasco, qualified passengers get expedited treatment in the general security lane.

Enrollment includes signing up for the Department of Homeland Security Trusted Traveler program at universalenroll.dhs.govand a follow-up visit to the enrollment center at Lourdes Occupational Health in Pasco.

The certification costs $85 and is valid for five years.

This story was originally published March 31, 2016 at 2:08 PM with the headline "Tri-Cities Airport needs more prescreened passengers."