International arrivals in the United States often involve a sequence of steps that can extend layovers well beyond the scheduled connection time. Passengers must navigate passport control, retrieve checked luggage, recheck bags, and clear security once more before boarding a domestic flight. Two pilot programs developed by the Transportation Security Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection now reduce some of these requirements on a limited set of routes.
One Stop Security Reduces Re-Screening Steps
The One Stop Security program allows eligible passengers to complete passport control immediately after deplaning their international flight. They can then proceed directly to their connecting gate without repeating the security screening process. This arrangement applies only to travelers arriving from abroad and continuing on a subsequent flight within the United States.
The initiative stems from agreements that recognize comparable security standards between the United States and partner countries. Implementation began more than a year ago on routes from the United Kingdom, with reciprocal benefits available for passengers traveling in the opposite direction as well.
Routes Covered by One Stop Security
Current eligibility remains narrow and centers on two major U.S. gateways served by specific airline partnerships. Travelers should verify their itinerary details directly with the carrier before booking.
- American Airlines and British Airways flights from London Heathrow to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
- Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic flights from London Heathrow to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Passengers on these routes avoid the security re-check when connecting onward. The same protocols apply when departing from Atlanta or Dallas Fort Worth toward London, creating time savings in both directions.
Remote Baggage Screening Addresses Luggage Transfers
A separate pilot program handles checked bags differently. Security images captured overseas are transmitted to U.S. authorities for review while the flight is en route. This process eliminates the need for passengers to collect and recheck luggage upon arrival before proceeding to a connecting flight.
Participants still complete customs and passport control, followed by standard TSA screening for themselves. The arrangement currently operates through partnerships with Australia and South Korea, involving three U.S. carriers on a defined set of routes.
Participating Airlines and Destinations for Baggage Screening
The program covers arrivals at several major hubs, primarily from Sydney and Seoul. Exact eligibility depends on the airline and specific flight.
- American Airlines service from Sydney to Los Angeles International Airport
- United Airlines service from Sydney to San Francisco International Airport
- Delta Air Lines and Korean Air flights from Seoul Incheon to Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis-St. Paul, and Seattle-Tacoma
These routes represent the initial phase of the initiative. Officials have indicated that additional partners and destinations may join as the programs expand.
Practical Considerations for Travelers
Both programs rely on pre-existing security equivalency determinations between the United States and the participating countries. They do not apply universally and remain limited to the listed routes and carriers. Passengers planning connections should confirm current eligibility through airline channels or official government resources, as operational details can evolve.
The developments illustrate how targeted international cooperation can address specific pain points in the arrival process without altering broader security requirements. Over time, similar arrangements may extend to additional gateways and origin countries.
AI Disclaimer: This article was created with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed by a human editor.