Travelers who want to avoid security checkpoint lines at Sky Harbor Airport may soon have another option. A private company that goes by Clear wants to bring its biometric identity verification system to Phoenix.
The system checks travelers’ identities by scanning their iris image or fingerprint. They are then taken to the front of the security line where they go through standard TSA screening.
The access requires an annual membership, which costs $179. If the City Council approves, Clear would pay Sky Harbor at least $200,000 the first year and could be operational by the end of the year.
Clear has been certified by the Department of Homeland Security and offers biometric screening at nearly 20 cities across the country.
EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to correct the number of cities that have been certified.
