What is an RT program?
From a security officer’s perspective
An RT (Registered Traveler)
program, or trusted traveler program,
is based on the premise that the segregation
of travelers into high and low risk
categories can allow security officials
to allocate greater attention and resources
to “unknown” or highrisk travelers.
Enrollment in such a program is voluntary
and requires travelers to submit to
a security threat assessment conducted
by government authorities. Assessment
will typically require the submission
of biographical and biometric data for
background checks.
From a traveler’s
perspective
Registered traveler programs
are voluntary schemes essentially designed
to securely fast-track low-risk passengers
through border control. Prior to enrolling
in such schemes, passengers are required
to submit a biometric identifier, such
as a fingerprint or iris pattern, as
well as other personal information for
screening. If authorized, travelers
can then take advantage of specially
designated security lines at participating
airports, typically much shorter in
length.
From an airport authority’s
perspective
Individuals admitted
to an RT program might be allowed to
use specially designated security screening
lines at participating airports on departure.
These lines make use of biometrics,
such as fingerprint, iris and/or facial
recognition, to verify a passenger’s
identity. It may also be possible for
RT participants to enjoy facilitated
immigration controls on arrival and
may also receive additional benefits.
A fee for the service may or may not
be charged depending on the arrangements
between airport authorities, airlines
and national and/or EU government authorities.
