Flying with Kids Just Got Easier: TSA Rolls Out Family-Only Security Lanes
Dedicated TSA lanes for families are launching at select U.S. airports—part of a broader push to make air travel less stressful for parents
Photo: Courtesy of TSA
Families traveling with young children can look forward to a smoother travel experience in the United States as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rolls out dedicated family-friendly security lines at select airports.
A New Approach to Family Travel
As announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the ‘Families on the Fly’ campaign aims to improve the hospitality provided to families at airports and improve their overall travel experience.
As well as dedicated family lanes at a select number of airports across the country, with more to come soon, the initiative will also include a $5 discount on TSA PreCheck fees for families and dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes for service members and their families in the near future.
Photo: Courtesy of Denver International Airport.
A TSA representative said that the new security lanes work much the same as regular TSA lines, but provide families with a dedicated space to ‘move at their own pace’ and not feel ‘rushed or as though they’re inconveniencing other travelers.’
Participating Airports and Expansion Plans
Airports currently participating in the Families on the Fly campaign are Orlando (MCO) and Charlotte-Douglas (CLT), while it will soon be expanded to Orange County (SNA) and Honolulu (HNL).
Photo: Terminal C. Courtesy of Orlando International Airport
The planned roll-out will also extend to Charleston (CHS), Jacksonville (JAX), Rhode Island (PVD), San Juan (SJU), and Tampa (TPA), followed by more airports nationwide in the coming months.
Addressing the Needs of Traveling Families
“DHS and TSA are committed to making the airport security experience as smooth and stress-free as possible for traveling families,” said Adam Stahl, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy TSA Administrator.
“The Families on the Fly campaign, being rolled out at select airports, aims to mitigate the unique challenges families face when traveling and minimize stress while maintaining the highest level of security.”
Photo: Courtesy of Octav Cado / Unsplash
Pete Garcia, TSA Federal Security Director for Orlando, said: “We understand that air travel can be challenging, especially for parents managing strollers, diaper bags, and young kids. That’s why we’re excited to launch ‘Familes on the Fly’—a dedicated TSA security lane at every checkpoint, tailored for families with children 12 and under.
“This program goes beyond convenience; it’s about addressing the unique needs of traveling families to provide a smoother, more supportive experience at our checkpoints. We’re dedicated to making travel smart, secure, and family friendly.”
More Changes Ahead at TSA Checkpoints
The Families on the Fly program is the latest in a string of changes the TSA has made to security checkpoint processes in recent months.
Photo: Courtesy of Denver International Airport
Last month, the agency announced it will offer free PreCheck enrollment to people who have lost a family member in U.S. military service, while it also lifted the requirement of removing shoes at security checkpoints for most travelers. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has suggested the TSA may ease its restrictions on liquids in carry-on luggage, although no date for any policy change has been confirmed.
