American Airlines Launches One Stop Security Program at DFW Airport

Introduction: A New Era in International Travel Security

International air travel has long been associated with complex security protocols, especially for passengers connecting through U.S. airports. The standard process, customs clearance, baggage retrieval, rechecking, and another round of security screening, often results in missed connections, passenger frustration, and operational inefficiencies. In response to these challenges, American Airlines has become the first U.S. airline to pilot the One Stop Security (OSS) program, a transformative approach aimed at streamlining international-to-domestic connections without compromising safety.

Launched on July 22, 2025, at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) for passengers arriving from London Heathrow (LHR), OSS is the result of a multi-agency collaboration involving the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the U.K. Department for Transport (DfT), and DFW Airport. The initiative enables eligible travelers to bypass traditional re-screening procedures by clearing customs at the arrival gate and having their checked bags automatically transferred to connecting flights. This innovation is expected to reduce connection times by over 50% and redefine the international travel experience.

The Evolution of International Travel Security

For decades, international travelers entering the U.S. faced a multi-step process that included clearing customs, collecting and rechecking baggage, and undergoing TSA screening before boarding a connecting flight. These redundancies were rooted in post-9/11 security policies established under the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001, which emphasized comprehensive screening to ensure national safety. While effective in mitigating threats, the system created logistical bottlenecks and extended layover times, particularly at major hub airports.

Recognizing these inefficiencies, aviation authorities explored the concept of mutual recognition of security standards between countries. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) introduced the One Stop Security principle in Annex 17 to the Chicago Convention, promoting reciprocal trust in screening procedures among compliant nations. However, despite ICAO’s endorsement, the U.S. lacked the legislative framework to implement such a system until the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023, which included provisions for OSS pilot programs.

This legislative breakthrough allowed TSA to collaborate with foreign airports that meet or exceed U.S. security standards. The OSS initiative represents a significant policy shift, enabling a risk-based approach to security that leverages technology and international cooperation to maintain safety while enhancing efficiency.

The Pilot at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

The operational rollout of OSS at DFW marks a significant milestone in U.S. aviation history. Passengers arriving on American Airlines Flight AA51 from London Heathrow now experience a streamlined process. Upon deplaning, they are met by CBP officers at the gate who conduct passport and immigration checks using facial recognition technology. Once cleared, travelers proceed directly to their connecting flights without reclaiming their luggage or going through TSA security again.

Behind the scenes, checked baggage undergoes remote screening and is automatically routed to the passenger’s next flight. This process is enabled by advanced baggage handling systems and real-time data integration among airline, airport, and government systems. The pilot follows a successful trial in February 2025 at London Heathrow for eastbound passengers traveling to non-U.K. destinations, which laid the groundwork for reciprocal implementation in the U.S.

This bilateral cooperation was made possible through extensive data sharing agreements and synchronized security protocols. The program leverages TSA’s Open Architecture framework, which supports interoperable systems using standardized formats like DICOS and OPSL. These technical standards ensure seamless communication between screening systems at both ends of the journey.

Technological Infrastructure and Strategic Partnerships

The success of OSS hinges on a robust technological ecosystem developed through strategic public-private partnerships. American Airlines partnered with BagCheck and Brock Solutions to implement the critical components of baggage tracking and operational control. BagCheck’s AI-driven platform ensures full traceability of luggage, while Brock Solutions provides the software backbone for real-time coordination among stakeholders.

DFW Airport also invested heavily in infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of biometric scanners at arrival gates and the reconfiguration of baggage systems to accommodate international transfers without passenger involvement. These enhancements are designed to support the seamless flow of passengers and luggage, reducing congestion and improving overall airport efficiency.

Cybersecurity plays a central role in the OSS framework. TSA mandates encrypted data transmission, multi-factor authentication, and continuous vulnerability assessments to protect sensitive information. Integration with CBP’s biometric entry-exit system ensures accurate identity verification and aligns with TSA’s vision of a frictionless, tech-enabled travel experience.

“We’re envisioning a fully automated process from curb to gate, tech-enabled and as seamless as possible.” — TSA Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl

Operational Benefits and Passenger Experience

Initial results from the DFW-LHR OSS pilot indicate significant improvements in both passenger satisfaction and operational metrics. Connection times have dropped from an average of 90-120 minutes to approximately 40 minutes, a reduction of up to 67%. This has lowered the incidence of missed connections and reduced associated costs for airlines, such as rebooking fees and accommodation expenses.

Passenger feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with a 92% approval rating reported during the first week of operation. Business travelers, in particular, have praised the program for enabling feasible same-day transatlantic connections, which were previously impractical due to long layovers and procedural delays.

From a security standpoint, OSS allows for more targeted and effective screening. By consolidating checks at the point of origin, TSA and CBP can focus resources on high-risk passengers and cargo. The automated baggage handling system has demonstrated a 30% improvement in screening efficiency, further enhancing the program’s overall effectiveness.

Expansion and Future Implications

Following the success at DFW, the OSS program is set to expand. Delta Air Lines is preparing to launch a similar initiative for London Heathrow-Atlanta connections, with TSA identifying other potential hubs including Chicago O’Hare, Miami International, and JFK. Expansion will initially focus on countries with established security agreements with the U.S., such as Germany, Japan, and the Netherlands.

Legislation currently under review, such as the One Stop Security Act (H.R. 4094), aims to formalize OSS as a permanent fixture in U.S. aviation policy. If passed, the act would extend eligibility to all airports that meet ICAO security standards. This legislative support aligns with the Biden administration’s broader goal of modernizing travel infrastructure through technological innovation.

Industry analysts predict that by 2028, more than 60% of international arrivals with U.S. connections could utilize OSS or similar systems. This would not only improve passenger experience but also influence airline route planning and airport design, as more efficient connections become a competitive advantage.

Conclusion

American Airlines’ deployment of the One Stop Security program at DFW is a landmark achievement in the evolution of international air travel. By eliminating redundant procedures and leveraging advanced technology, OSS enhances both security and efficiency, setting a new standard for the industry. The program demonstrates how international collaboration and legislative support can drive meaningful change in complex systems.

As OSS expands to other airports and airlines, it promises to reshape the global travel landscape. The integration of biometric verification, remote baggage screening, and real-time data sharing represents a forward-looking approach to aviation security. While challenges remain, the program’s early success provides a compelling case for broader adoption and continued innovation in the pursuit of seamless, secure international travel.

FAQ

What is One Stop Security (OSS)?
OSS is a program that allows eligible international travelers to connect through U.S. airports without rechecking bags or undergoing additional security screening, provided they arrive from approved foreign airports with equivalent security standards.

Where is OSS currently implemented?
The program was first launched at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) for passengers arriving from London Heathrow (LHR) on American Airlines.

Who is eligible for OSS?
Currently, OSS is available to passengers on through-ticketed itineraries with American Airlines or its oneworld partners, arriving from LHR and connecting within four hours at DFW.

Is OSS safe?
Yes. The program maintains rigorous security standards through biometric verification, encrypted data sharing, and remote baggage screening, all in compliance with TSA and CBP protocols.

Will OSS be expanded to other airports?
TSA plans to expand OSS to additional U.S. airports, including Atlanta, Chicago O’Hare, and Miami, with further international partnerships under development.

Sources

• American Airlines Newsroom
• TSA.gov
• CBP.gov
• ICAO