TSA PreCheck Changes Are Coming: Automated Lanes, Body Scanners, and More Tech

Updated: October 7, 2026, 12:25pm CDT

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TSA To Make Major Changes Regarding Screening Procedures
What This Means for Travelers
Final Thoughts

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TSA PreCheck could be heading for one of its biggest changes to date. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is moving toward a new security checkpoint experience — one that would bring body scanners and redesigned screening lanes for PreCheck passengers.

Here’s everything you need to know about these potential changes.

TSA To Make Major Changes Regarding Screening Procedures

According to recent comments from TSA leadership, including the TSA administrator, the agency is working towards introducing new TSA PreCheck lanes at 7 airports over a 6-week period.

The new changes include redesigned checkpoints that are expected to make greater use of automated screening technology, such as body-scanning equipment and other systems designed to reduce the manual workload on TSA officers.

The developments come as TSA continues to experiment with technology designed to speed up and improve security checkpoints. The agency has already been expanding facial-recognition technology through Touchless ID, which allows eligible travelers to verify their identity using a facial scan rather than presenting a physical ID at participating checkpoints.

TSA IAH Terminal A 110325 North entering PreCheck — TSA PreCheck members may soon encounter a new security screening experience. Image Credit: Keri Stooksbury

The TSA has also been experimenting with automated screening lanes and computed tomography (CT) scanners to help keep passengers and bags moving through checkpoints more efficiently. It’s even introduced dedicated lanes for families.

This massive push toward automation could also change how TSA staffs its PreCheck checkpoints. The TSA has stated that newer technology can reduce the number of officers needed to operate certain checkpoints.

What This Means for Travelers

For TSA PreCheck members, the changes could mean a faster, more streamlined experience. Rather than simply getting an expedited version of the security screening process, travelers could encounter checkpoints designed around automation from the start.

This difference would be especially noticeable at busier airports, where growing PreCheck enrollment has contributed to longer lines, essentially reducing some of the program’s original time-saving advantage.

However, travelers should not expect every PreCheck lane to change overnight. As of now, the initial phase is limited to 7 airports. Which airports are on that list hasn’t been shared publicly.

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Final Thoughts

TSA PreCheck may be entering a new era. What began as a way for trusted travelers to avoid some of the hassles of traditional airport security is becoming much more.

The changes are part of a broader effort by the TSA to modernize airport security, speed up passenger processing, and make better use of technology at checkpoints. If the new system at the first 7 airports proves successful, the changes could eventually spread to other locations.