Traveling with kids this summer has just gotten a bit more bearable—at least at Tampa International Airport. The Transportation Security Administration has rolled out a new program, "Families on the Fly", designed to expedite security screenings for travelers with children. According to a recent TSA announcement, this initiative introduces dedicated lanes specifically for families with children aged 12 and under, aiming to alleviate the usual travel strain on parents.
The program acknowledges the particular challenges families face at airports, dealing with strollers, diaper bags, and the unpredictability of young ones. TSA's Federal Security Director for Tampa, Kirk Skinner, explained the impetus behind the campaign: "We understand that air travel can be challenging, especially for parents managing strollers, diaper bags, and young kids," Skinner said in a statement obtained by TSA. "The 'Families on the Fly' campaign offers dedicated security lanes for families, creating a more efficient and family-friendly screening process. Our goal is to make air travel secure, smart, and supportive for families."
These dedicated family lanes aren't exclusive to Tampa. Other airports, including Orlando International, Jacksonville International, Charlotte-Douglas International, and several more, also feature these expedited pathways. TSA hints at plans to expand this service to additional airports nationwide, thus reinforcing their commitment to family-friendly travel.
But the care doesn't stop at families. TSA is also looking out for military members with the "Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease" campaign, granting them expedited PreCheck lane access. As per a TSA press release, military personnel and their families, as well as Department of Defense staff, can utilize their DOD ID numbers for free TSA PreCheck benefits when flying out of airports like TPA. It’s a small acknowledgment of their service, designed to make their journeys smoother, and this comes alongside a TSA promotional deal offering $15 off a second PreCheck enrollment when two people sign up together—a potential $30 savings for a family of four.
We can't forget passengers with disabilities or medical conditions. The TSA Cares program continues to provide individualized assistance, ensuring all travelers can get through security screening with less hassle. And with the summer travel season in high gear, TSA recommends that everyone—no matter their specific circumstances—prepares for airport security. Further details about the programs and how to prepare for travel are available on TSA's website, where travelers can find resources and take advantage of current offers.
