Fast Track Airport Security
Is fast track at the airport worth it?
If you are a regular flyer, you will know that you often spend the majority of your time queueing through various checkpoints before you finally get to your departure gate. The opportunity to bypass the lines and fast-track through security is likely to be very appealing.
It is worth noting that most airports can not guarantee that fast-track security lines will be quicker. However, if you are flying during a peak time - if your flight leaves before 10 am or during seasonal peaks such as school holidays - then you are more likely to experience the benefit of fast track security.
If you have a strict deadline (if you are catching a connecting flight, for example) and can’t afford to miss your flight, or if you like to make your airport experience as enjoyable as stress free as possible, then security fast tracking might be for you.
What is fast-track airport security?
Many airports offer a security fast-tracking scheme. With a fast-track security pass, passengers can enter a priority lane to skip the queues at security screening. This means reaching the security search-area quicker, allowing for more time to relax in the departure lounge before flying.
Some airports provide the option to purchase a fast-track security lane pass, either in advance or at the airport on the day of travel. Purchasing a pass will enable access to the fast-track lane during security screening. The price varies depending on the airport.
Top Tip: If you’re flying Business or First Class, many airlines will also provide their customers with fast-track security lines as a complimentary service!
How do you use a fast-track pass?
Before heading to the airport, it’s worth checking whether you can buy a Fast Track Pass as a standalone service. A Fast Track Pass allows you to use a dedicated airport fast track security lane on the day of your flight, helping you move through security more quickly.
Once at the airport, fast-track passengers can access a separate lane at security. Please note that standard airport security rules and procedures still apply, even when using airport fast track services.
Fast Track Security in the UK
Many of the busiest airports in the UK now offer a fast-track security pass. At some airports, a pass can be pre-purchased, but at others a pass will need to be purchased at the airport, which is a good opportunity to assess the queues once you’re at the airport and judge whether you think the pass will be worthwhile.
Travelling as a family?
Note that there are no freebies for children, and most airports require all passengers, including children and babies, to purchase a fast-track ticket. Also, be warned that some schemes, including those at Manchester and Stansted, will not let you through if you have a buggy, pram, or car seat.
Can I book my fast-track pass in advance?
This depends on the airport you are travelling through. Some airports, such as Gatwick and Glasgow, only allow advance bookings. But at most other airports, you purchase a fast-track ticket in the terminal. At East Midlands, Manchester and London Stansted, purchasing a pass at the airport is the same as advance purchasing a pass - so you might want to wait until you arrive to judge how long the queues are before buying your pass. But note that at other airports it may be more expensive.
Fast Track Security in the USA
When leaving the USA: TSA PreCheck
TSA Precheck is a service that allows some passengers departing from US airports to fast-track the security screening process. TSA PreCheck is a purchasable pass and available for a number of low-risk travellers. TSA PreCheck is only valid with certain airlines - more information can be found in our TSA PreCheck guide.
When entering the USA:
Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Protection program, allowing expedited clearance for pre-approved and low-risk travellers upon arrival in the United States. Eligible passengers enter the United States through automatic kiosks at (select) airports. More information can be found here.
Trusted globally
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot
We’re super proud of our Trustpilot rating, but don’t just take it from us. See why millions of others love booking their flights through Alternative Airlines