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Jun 21, 2007 11:51 pm US/Eastern
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Airline Security 'EZ Pass' Earning Rave Reviews
JFK's 6-Month-Old Program The Best-Kept Secret In Travel
by Deborah Garcia
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
It's the new way to speed through the long lines and big hassles of airport security -- a new security card that could ease the headaches.
Long lines, stress and worrying about missing your flight are all part of going through airport security.
"It's always a little bit of a hassle," said Ronald Bryant, an air traveler from Union, N.J.
Jill Belasco doesn't have that problem. Thanks to her $99 Clear Registered Traveler System ID card, she's been cutting to the front of the security line for six months since the program was initiated at Kennedy Airport.
"I travel 200,000 miles a year, so for me it's well worth it," Belasco said.
Rob Cimino, the senior vice president of member services for Clear ID, said the card is not for everyone.
"It's a way for business travelers to have a more reliable experience at the security check points," Cimino said.
To get a card, you first have to register online. Once that's done you come to the appropriate kiosk at the airport. Then you hand over your identification to an attendant who scans it into the system.
Next, your fingerprints are scanned and so are both of your eyes. Once your information is in the system, you should get your card between two and four weeks. During that time the Transportation Security Administration reviews your information.
"TSA performs a threat assessment," Cimino said. "While we are not privileged to the exact nature of it. It's a background check against a watch list that they monitor."
At this time there are only about 48,000 card holders, and only five airports that have the Clear system at some of their terminals, which is card holders' only complaint
"I think the system is great idea if we can get it into more airports," Belasco said. "Right now it's ineffective because it's not in many airports."
Upon purchase, the card is good for one year. It's important to note, you will still need to bring your identification, driver's license or passport with you when you travel.
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)