There’s a little-known, ‘secret’ way that air travelers can breeze through the security lines at some airports.
It’s not a paid program such as TSA PreCheck or any of the CLEAR categories.
It IS a free virtual queuing program that allows travelers to skip the long lines and make a reservation to go through airport security.
Checkpoint resevation programs available at 5 U.S. airports
It used to be 6, but after opening a new set of checkpoints and smoothing out its checkpoint backups, Denver International Airport (DEN) retired its DEN Reserve Program in June, 2026.
And at the end of November, 2026, only 4 airports will offer checkpoint reservation programs.
The SEA Spot Saver program at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), debuted in 2021 to help address the long security wait times often created by this space-constrained airport.
Travelers loved it. However, SEA recently announced that with a handful of new and expanded security checkpoints in place and operating smoothly, the SEA Spot Saver will be retired at the end of November, 2026.
“With more lanes and additional tools in place, lines have been moving quickly, with over 94% of travelers getting through in 20 minutes or less this year,” the airport said in a statement announcing the end of the SEA Spot Saver program. “In 2025, 93% of travelers went through in 20 minutes or less. The last two years, 99% have gone through is 30 minutes or less.”
Here are the other U.S. airports currently offering checkpoint reservation programs
The MCO Reserve program at Orlando International Airport (MCO) lets passengers skip the lines and book a checkpoint slot up to 7 days in advance for up to 10 people traveling together.
The PHX Reserve at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) offers security checkpoint reservations at Terminals 3 and 4, which are connected by a SkyTrain pre-security but not connected post-security.
MSP Reserve at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) offers checkpoint reservations in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
At New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), only Terminal 4 offers security checkpoint reservations. T4 Reserve is available in Terminal 4, at the Main Checkpoint.
While each program has its own branding, here’s a general idea of how the airport security checkpoint reservations work:
If your airport offers a checkpoint reservation program and you don’t have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, you can complete a form on the airport website or app with your flight date and number, airline, party size, email, and preferred checkpoint reservation time.
If a slot is open, you’ll get a QR code and an appointment confirmation in return.
Most airports allow reservations 5 or more days ahead of a flight for up to ten people traveling together. And day-of slots are often available.
When it is time to travel, go to the assigned checkpoint at your appointment time (or within the 15-minute grace time).
Show your QR code and ID and be escorted to the general screening lane.
