Route Development
CLEAR Launches Biometric eGate Pilot at Major US Airports
CLEAR and TSA introduce biometric eGates at key US airports to enhance security and speed for travelers ahead of 2026 global events.
CLEAR’s recent launch of a biometric eGate pilot program at select U.S. Airports marks a significant step in modernizing airport security. This initiative, developed in partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), introduces automated identity verification technology at three major U.S. airports: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL), Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), and Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA). The timing aligns with preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary, both of which are expected to bring unprecedented travel volumes to the United States.
The pilot program is notable not just for its technological innovation, but also for its funding structure. CLEAR is investing private capital in the project at no cost to taxpayers, reflecting a broader industry trend toward public-private partnerships in critical infrastructure. By leveraging biometrics and automation, the eGate program aims to streamline passenger processing, reduce wait times, and enhance security, potentially setting a new standard for airports nationwide.
As biometrics become increasingly central to the travel experience, the CLEAR eGate pilot program offers a glimpse into the future of airport security, balancing efficiency, privacy, and operational control. Its outcomes may influence not only U.S. airports, but also global approaches to passenger screening and identity verification.
The evolution of airport security has been shaped by decades of incremental improvements, technological advancements, and responses to emerging threats. Traditionally, security relied on manual document checks and human judgment, leading to bottlenecks and inefficiencies, especially during peak travel periods. As global air travel has increased, so too has the need for scalable, reliable, and efficient security solutions.
CLEAR entered this landscape as a trusted traveler program, focusing on biometric enrollment and verification to expedite security for its members. With over 7.6 million active CLEAR+ members across 59 airports and $219.5 million in revenue reported in the second quarter of 2025, CLEAR has established itself as a leader in premium travel services. Its business model is built on offering faster, more seamless security experiences for an annual fee, catering to frequent travelers and those seeking convenience.
Meanwhile, the TSA has pursued its own modernization efforts, such as TSA PreCheck and advanced screening technologies. The collaboration between CLEAR and TSA reflects a broader movement toward integrating private sector innovation with public sector oversight, a model that can accelerate deployment while maintaining security and regulatory standards.
“The convergence of public and private expertise in airport security is creating new opportunities to address unprecedented travel challenges, especially as the U.S. prepares for major global events.”
The strategic timing of the eGate pilot, coinciding with the upcoming World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary, underscores the urgency of enhancing airport infrastructure to accommodate millions of additional travelers.
The CLEAR eGate pilot program integrates facial recognition, document verification, and automated access control. At each eGate, a traveler’s live facial image is matched to their government-issued ID and boarding pass, typically completing the process in three to six seconds. This represents a substantial improvement over manual checks, particularly during high-traffic periods. The rollout began at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport on August 19, 2025, with subsequent deployments at DCA and SEA later that month. This phased approach allows for real-world testing across diverse airport environments, enabling CLEAR and TSA to refine technology and procedures before broader expansion.
Access to the eGates is currently limited to CLEAR+ members, who pay $209 annually for expedited security services. This restriction ensures a controlled user base during the pilot phase and leverages CLEAR’s established customer relationships. TSA agents retain operational control, including final authority over gate access, while CLEAR provides the technological infrastructure. Importantly, only essential data (live photo, boarding pass, and ID photo) is transmitted for verification, with no retention of biometric data after processing.
“The eGate system is designed to enhance efficiency without compromising privacy or security. TSA maintains full operational authority, and CLEAR never accesses federal watchlists or retains biometric data.”
CLEAR’s investment in eGate infrastructure is fully funded by private capital, a move supported by its strong financial performance. In Q2 2025, CLEAR reported $219.5 million in revenue, a 17.5% year-over-year increase, and an operating income of $42.6 million. With a membership base of 7.6 million and a high renewal rate, CLEAR is well-positioned to scale the eGate program and capture a larger share of the growing airport automation market.
The global airport e-gates market was valued at $1.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate of around 9.2%. The expansion of automated passenger processing solutions is driven by rising travel volumes, the need for contactless experiences, and efficiency gains demonstrated by early adopters.
Investment analysts have responded positively to CLEAR’s strategic direction. Several have raised price targets, reflecting confidence in the company’s ability to leverage its membership model and technological leadership. The pilot’s exclusive availability to CLEAR+ members also reinforces the company’s premium positioning and recurring revenue streams.
“CLEAR’s ability to self-fund major infrastructure projects while growing its membership base gives it a unique competitive advantage in the airport automation sector.”
The U.S. is not alone in pursuing biometric automation at airports. Singapore Changi Airport aims to automate 95% of immigration processing by 2026, targeting a 10-second clearance time. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are also implementing biometric smart gates across security and boarding checkpoints, eliminating manual document checks and setting new efficiency benchmarks.
According to Valour Consultancy, over 13,400 eGates have been installed globally, with Europe leading adoption and Asia Pacific close behind. In the U.S., approaches have varied, with Customs and Border Protection deploying the Traveler Verification System for international arrivals rather than widespread eGate use.
Passenger acceptance of biometrics is rising, with International Air Transport Association data showing 46% of travelers used biometrics at airports in 2024 and 73% preferring it over physical documents. Established industry players like dormakaba and Vision-Box dominate the eGate market, but CLEAR’s partnership with TSA and its private funding model introduce a new dynamic to the competitive landscape. The expansion of biometric technology in airports raises important privacy and civil liberties questions. Organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union and the Brennan Center for Justice have warned that widespread biometric tracking could set precedents for broader government surveillance. Congressional scrutiny has increased, with bipartisan calls for stronger oversight and privacy protections.
CLEAR differentiates itself by offering an opt-in model with limited data retention. The company states that it does not retain biometric data post-verification, and participation is voluntary. However, critics caution that as biometric systems become more prevalent, the distinction between voluntary and mandatory participation may blur.
Legislative proposals like the Traveler Privacy Protection Act (S. 1691) seek to establish stricter governance for biometric data in transportation. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General has highlighted compliance gaps in AI privacy, and international frameworks such as the U.S.-EU data privacy agreement are influencing domestic policy.
“Balancing the benefits of biometric efficiency with privacy and civil liberties remains a central challenge as airport automation accelerates.”
CLEAR’s eGate pilot positions the company as a leader in biometric identity verification for airports. Its public-private partnership model could serve as a template for other critical infrastructure projects, combining private innovation and funding with public oversight.
The eGate system’s impact on airport operations could be significant, potentially reducing staffing needs at identity checkpoints while improving throughput and passenger satisfaction. However, the exclusive availability to CLEAR+ members may create a two-tiered security experience, influencing traveler behavior and airport resource allocation.
The pilot program’s data will inform future deployments and operational best practices. If successful, it could accelerate the adoption of biometrics across the Aviation industry, from check-in to boarding, and influence airport design and passenger flow management for years to come.
CLEAR’s eGate pilot is likely just the beginning of a nationwide transformation in airport security. The company has signaled plans to expand eGate implementation across its network in anticipation of the World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary. Integration with programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry could create a comprehensive, seamless travel experience for frequent flyers.
International expansion, digital identity offerings, and premium services like CLEAR Concierge represent additional growth opportunities. As airports and airlines seek to modernize, the lessons learned from this pilot could shape the future of travel security and customer experience, both in the U.S. and globally. CLEAR’s biometric eGate pilot program exemplifies how public-private collaboration can drive technological innovation in airport security. By automating identity verification and streamlining passenger processing, the program addresses urgent capacity and efficiency needs ahead of major global events. Its success could establish a new standard for airport security, balancing operational efficiency, security, and privacy.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the integration of biometrics through initiatives like CLEAR’s eGates will likely become essential for managing growing passenger volumes. The outcomes of this pilot will inform future deployments and could influence global best practices in airport security for years to come.
What is CLEAR’s eGate pilot program? Which airports are participating in the pilot? Who can use the eGates? How does the eGate system protect privacy? How is the pilot funded? Will the eGate system expand to other airports?
CLEAR’s Biometric eGate Pilot Program: Transforming Airport Security Ahead of Major Global Events
Background and Historical Context of Airport Security Evolution
The eGate Pilot Program: Technical Specifications and Implementation Strategy
Financial Impact and Market Positioning
Global Context and International Biometric Aviation Trends
Privacy, Security, and Regulatory Considerations
Industry Impact and Competitive Dynamics
Future Implications and Strategic Outlook
Conclusion
FAQ
It is an automated security checkpoint system using facial recognition and document verification to expedite identity checks for CLEAR+ members at select U.S. airports.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL), Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), and Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA).
Only CLEAR+ members, who pay an annual fee, can use the eGates during the pilot phase.
Only minimal data is transmitted for verification, and biometric data is not retained after processing. TSA agents maintain operational control.
The program is fully funded by CLEAR’s private capital, with no cost to taxpayers.
CLEAR has indicated plans to expand the system nationwide ahead of upcoming major events.Sources
Photo Credit: CLEAR
Route Development
Heathrow Ends 100ml Liquid Limit with £1 Billion Security Upgrade
Heathrow Airport completes £1 billion upgrade with CT scanners, allowing liquids up to 2L and laptops in bags for departures.
Heathrow Airport has officially announced the completion of a massive security upgrade across all four of its terminals, marking the end of the restrictive 100ml liquid limit for departing passengers. According to an official press release issued on January 23, 2026, the airport has finalized a £1 billion investment to install next-generation Computed Tomography (CT) scanners, positioning itself as the largest airport in the world to fully deploy this technology across its entire operation.
The upgrade fundamentally changes the pre-flight experience for millions of travelers. Under the new regulations, passengers departing from Heathrow can now carry liquids in containers of up to 2 liters in their hand luggage. Additionally, large electronic devices such as laptops and tablets no longer need to be removed from bags during screening. The airport states that this move will not only streamline the security process but also significantly reduce single-use plastic waste.
The core of this upgrade involves the installation of advanced CT scanners, similar to technology used in medical environments. These machines generate detailed 3D images of cabin baggage, allowing security officers to rotate and analyze the contents on-screen without requiring passengers to physically separate items.
In its announcement, Heathrow confirmed that the requirement to place liquids in clear plastic bags has been eliminated. This operational shift is expected to have a substantial environmental impact. The airport estimates that removing the plastic bag mandate will save approximately 16 million single-use plastic bags annually.
Data released by the airport suggests the new technology is already delivering performance improvements. Heathrow reported that in 2025, it was named “Europe’s most punctual hub airport.” During that period, more than 97% of passengers waited less than five minutes for security screening. Furthermore, the airport noted that its baggage load rate improved to over 98% in 2025, indicating a reduction in missed bags.
Thomas Woldbye, CEO of Heathrow, highlighted the significance of the milestone in a statement included in the press release:
“Every Heathrow passenger can now leave their liquids and laptops in their bags at security as we become the largest airport in the world to roll out the latest security scanning technology. That means less time preparing for security and more time enjoying their journey, and millions fewer single-use plastic bags. This billion pound investment means our customers can be confident they will continue to have a great experience at Heathrow.”
While the completion of this project is a major achievement for UK aviation infrastructure, it comes after significant industry-wide delays. The UK government originally set a deadline of June 2024 for major airports to install this technology. Like Gatwick, Manchester, and Stansted, Heathrow faced logistical hurdles, including supply chain issues and the need to reinforce floors to support the heavy scanners, that pushed the completion date to January 2026.
Travelers must remain vigilant regarding the limitations of this new rule. The ability to carry liquids up to 2 liters applies only to passengers departing from Heathrow. Many international destinations, as well as other airports within the UK and EU, may not have completed their upgrades. Passengers transferring through other hubs or returning to Heathrow from airports without CT scanners will still be subject to the traditional 100ml liquid limit. Consequently, purchasing large liquids duty-free or packing full-sized toiletries in carry-on luggage could result in confiscation at the return airport or a connecting security checkpoint. We recommend checking the specific security regulations of all airports on your itinerary before packing.
Do I still need to put liquids in a plastic bag at Heathrow? What is the new liquid limit? Do I need to take my laptop out of my bag? Does this apply to my return flight?
Heathrow Scraps 100ml Liquid Limit Following £1 Billion Security Overhaul
Next-Generation Security Technology
Operational Efficiency Gains
AirPro News Analysis: Context and Traveler Advisory
The “One-Way” Rule Caveat
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The requirement to use clear plastic bags for liquids has been eliminated for departures from Heathrow.
Passengers can now carry liquids in containers of up to 2 liters in their hand luggage.
No. Laptops, tablets, and other large electronics can remain inside your cabin baggage during the screening process.
Not necessarily. These rules apply to departures from Heathrow. You must check the rules of the airport you are flying back from, as many still enforce the 100ml limit.
Sources
Photo Credit: Heathrow Airport
Route Development
San Francisco International Airport Opens New Operations Center with Digital Twin
SFO unveils a $250M Airport Integrated Operations Center featuring digital twin technology to centralize and enhance airport management.
This article is based on an official press release from San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has officially opened its new Airport Integrated Operations Center (AIOC), a centralized hub designed to unify critical airport functions under one roof. According to an official announcement from the airport, the facility began full operations with a celebration on January 22, 2026. The 22,000-square-foot center represents a significant shift in how the airport manages its daily logistics, moving from decentralized departments to a collaborative, technology-driven model.
Located within the newly constructed Courtyard 3 Connector (C3C), a secure building linking Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, the AIOC serves as the operational “brain” of the airport. SFO officials state that the facility brings together security, dispatch, facilities, and airline coordinators into a single workspace, enabling faster response times and better coordination during both routine operations and emergencies.
The AIOC is a primary component of the Courtyard 3 Connector project, which SFO reports has an estimated value of $250 million. The project was delivered by a design-build team led by general contractor Hensel Phelps, with architectural design by HOK and MEI Architects. The facility features 67 workstations designed to foster cross-functional collaboration, breaking down the traditional silos that often exist between different airport departments.
Beyond housing the operations center, the C3C building provides a secure post-security walkway for passengers moving between terminals. This dual-purpose design improves passenger flow while simultaneously upgrading the airport’s operational infrastructure. In line with SFO’s sustainability goals, the building is “Net Zero Energy ready” and is targeting LEED Gold certification.
A key feature of the new center is its integration of “digital twin” technology. Developed in partnership with Esri, this system creates a real-time 3D digital replica of the entire airport complex. According to the project details, this system allows staff to monitor a wide array of operational metrics, including:
The system utilizes color-coded alerts to notify staff of potential issues before they escalate. For example, the system can flag delays or early arrivals, allowing the integrated teams to reallocate resources proactively. In the event of a crisis, such as a security breach or natural disaster, the AIOC converts into a command post to coordinate a unified response among all agencies.
Mike Nakornkhet, the Airport Director at SFO, emphasized the strategic importance of the new facility in the official release:
“The AIOC is all about running the very best airport operation to deliver a consistent and seamless airport experience for our guests. Utilising a wealth of emerging technologies and historical data, the AIOC’s primary purpose is to ensure teams have the capacity to proactively monitor conditions, activate contingency plans and deploy resources.”
The opening of SFO’s AIOC highlights a broader trend in the aviation industry toward “predictive operations.” Historically, airports have operated in a reactive mode, addressing bottlenecks at security or baggage claim only after they occur. By co-locating key decision-makers and equipping them with a digital twin, SFO is attempting to transition to a model where operational disruptions are identified and mitigated before they impact the passenger. This consolidation of command and control is particularly critical for airports with constrained footprints like SFO. With limited physical space to expand, efficiency gains must come from better management of existing assets. The “digital twin” concept, while common in manufacturing and urban planning, is rapidly becoming the standard for major international hubs seeking to optimize gate utilization and turnaround times without pouring new concrete.
What is the Airport Integrated Operations Center (AIOC)? Where is the new facility located? What is a “Digital Twin”? When did the AIOC open?
SFO Unveils High-Tech “Nerve Center” to Centralize Airport Operations
A $250 Million Infrastructure Investment
Digital Twin Technology and Real-Time Monitoring
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The AIOC is a centralized facility at SFO where security, dispatch, maintenance, and airline operations teams work together in a shared space to manage airport logistics 24/7.
It is located in the Courtyard 3 Connector (C3C), a new building that connects Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.
A Digital Twin is a virtual 3D replica of the airport that uses real-time data to simulate and monitor operations, helping staff predict and prevent delays.
While the unit began initial operations earlier, the official opening celebration took place on January 22, 2026.
Sources
Photo Credit: San Francisco Airport
Route Development
United Airlines CEO Defends Gate Control at Chicago O’Hare in 2026
United Airlines commits to defending gate allocation at Chicago O’Hare amid competition with American Airlines using flight volume strategies in 2026.
This article summarizes reporting by Reuters and Rajesh Singh.
The ongoing struggle for control over Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) intensified sharply on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. During United Airlines’ fourth-quarter earnings call, CEO Scott Kirby issued a stark warning to rival American Airlines, signaling that United is prepared to aggressively defend its market share and gate allocation at one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs.
According to reporting by Reuters, Kirby explicitly stated that United is “drawing a line in the sand” regarding gate competition in 2026. The conflict centers on the airport’s “use-it-or-lose-it” leasing agreement, which reallocates gates based on flight departure volumes. With American Airlines attempting to regain ground lost in 2025, United has pledged to match any capacity increases necessary to prevent its rival from acquiring additional infrastructure.
The core of this dispute is not just about rhetoric; it is a structural battle over real estate governed by the 2018 Airline Use and Lease Agreement (AULA). As reported by Reuters, Kirby emphasized that United would add “as many flights as are required” to maintain its current gate count.
During the earnings call, United leadership highlighted a significant financial divergence between the two carriers at their shared hub. Kirby claimed that while United’s O’Hare operations generated approximately $500 million in profit in 2025, American Airlines suffered a loss of roughly the same amount at the hub. United argues that this disparity makes American’s aggressive expansion unsustainable.
The tension follows a decisive shift in airport real estate that occurred in late 2025. Due to United’s faster post-pandemic recovery and higher schedule density, the carrier triggered a lease clause allowing it to acquire five additional gates in October 2025. Conversely, American Airlines was forced to surrender four gates due to lower utilization metrics.
Current airport data indicates the following gate distribution:
“We’re not going to allow them to win a single gate at our expense.”
, Scott Kirby, United Airlines CEO (via Reuters)
Despite the financial figures presented by United, American Airlines has launched a “scorched earth” scheduling strategy to reclaim its footing. Industry reports indicate that American has added approximately 100 daily departures to its Spring 2026 schedule. The goal of this volume increase is to improve utilization metrics enough to trigger a “claw back” of gates in the next annual allocation cycle.
In addition to schedule padding, American Airlines executed a strategic real estate acquisition in late 2025. Following Spirit Airlines’ bankruptcy proceedings, American purchased two gates for $30 million, securing access outside of the city’s standard allocation formula.
The competition has spilled over into regional route networks, creating a “tit-for-tat” scenario. When American announced new service to regional markets such as Erie, Pennsylvania, and the Tri-Cities in Tennessee in early January, United responded within 24 hours by announcing identical routes. This strategy effectively floods smaller markets with capacity, preventing either carrier from establishing a monopoly.
While passengers may benefit temporarily from the lower fares resulting from this capacity dumping, the long-term implications for O’Hare are complex. The aggressive “use-it-or-lose-it” rules were designed to ensure efficient use of public infrastructure, but they currently appear to be incentivizing airlines to fly potentially unprofitable schedules solely to hoard real estate.
Furthermore, this squabble is the prelude to the massive “O’Hare 21” expansion. The carrier that commands the most market share today will likely wield the most influence over the design and allocation of the upcoming Satellite 1 and Global Terminal projects. United’s “line in the sand” suggests they view 2026 not just as a battle for current gates, but as the deciding year for the airport’s future configuration.
Sources: Reuters
United Airlines CEO Draws “Line in the Sand” in Battle for O’Hare Dominance
The “Line in the Sand”: Financials and Gate Control
The 2025 Reallocation
American Airlines’ Counter-Offensive
The Route War
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo Credit: Hyoung Chang – The Denver Post
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