Survey Shows Strong Support for Airport Biometric Security Among U.S. Travelers

A new survey from the U.S. Travel Association and Ipsos reveals that the vast majority of American travelers favor the use of biometric technology at airport security checkpoints. The survey, conducted after the busy Labor Day weekend, highlights the growing demand for streamlined, secure airport experiences.

“Air travelers are overwhelmingly in favor of biometric technology to enhance security and ease the travel process,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “While some in Congress resist modern advancements, most travelers see this technology as essential to a safer, more efficient air travel experience.”

Key findings include:

• 79% of air travelers and 78% of Americans overall support the use of biometrics at TSA checkpoints.
• 95% of air travelers and 92% of Americans agree on the importance of verifying traveler identity for safety.
• 90% of air travelers would support biometrics if it cut down security wait times.
• Most supporters prioritize stopping terrorism (71%) and improving airport safety (66%) over reducing wait times.

Additionally, over half of respondents favor biometric use if data is deleted promptly and protected from other agencies.

Freeman noted the importance of biometrics as the U.S. prepares for a decade of major international events, calling for Washington to fund and expand this technology nationwide.

The U.S. Travel’s Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel, led by former Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan, is set to release a report on improving security and efficiency later this year.