(KTLA) – Select airports across the country are adding special security lanes to help make travel easier for families.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced in July its new “Families on the Fly” program, which aims to “put families first and enhance their airport security screening experience during the busy summer travel season and beyond,” according to the agency.
When asked, a representative for the TSA told Nexstar that the family-friendly security lanes work basically the same as the regular lanes, while providing families “with their own space where they can move through security at their own pace, without feeling rushed or as though they’re inconveniencing other travelers.”
The “Families on the Fly” line is seen at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana on Aug. 5, 2025. (KTLA)
As part of the program, the TSA is also offering a $15 discount on PreCheck enrollment when two adults sign up together. Kids under 12 are generally allowed the same benefits when traveling with an enrolled adult; kids under 17 may also be eligible if they meet certain conditions.
There are also plans to implement dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes for service members and their families, per TSA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Dedicated family lanes are already operational at Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) in North Carolina, the TSA says. But Nexstar’s KTLA reported that John Wayne Airport, in Orange County, Calif., debuted its lane in July.
KTLA’s Carlos Herrera visited John Wayne Airport on Tuesday to speak with families testing out the new lane.
“It’s been very nice. Very short line,” one parent at the Southern California airport, just moments before she reached the front of the queue.
In addition to the Orlando, Charlotte-Douglas and John Wayne facilities, dedicated family lanes are planned for the following airports, according to the TSA:
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu (HNL)
- Charleston International Airport (CHS)
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
- Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD)
- Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in Puerto Rico (SJU)
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
“This program goes beyond convenience; it’s about addressing the unique needs of traveling families to provide a smoother, more supportive experience at our security checkpoints,” Pete Garcia, the TSA federal security director for Orlando, was quoted as saying in a press release. “We’re dedicated to making travel smart, secure, and family friendly.”
More information on the TSA’s “Families on the Fly” program can be found at the agency’s official website.
