United Launches TSA Wait Time Feature in Mobile App at Seven Hub Airports
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United Launches TSA Wait Time Feature in Mobile App at Seven Hub Airports

04 April, 2026.Technology and Science.15 sources

United app adds estimated TSA wait times at seven U.S. hub airports. Includes separate estimates for standard screening and TSA PreCheck lanes.

15 outlets4 divides2 facts unevenly covered

Beat 1 · The verdict

Pilot-program framing vs general feature rollout

Beat 2 · The divide, quote v quote

“Pilot program for new customer feature starts at airline's U.S. hub airports in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington D.C.”

PPR Newswire (Western Mainstream)

“United Airlines is updating its iOS and Android mobile apps with several new features, including estimated security wait times to give travelers a better idea of when they should arrive at the airport.”

TTechCrunch (Western Mainstream)

Read them yourself

Do not take our word for it. Here is what they published.

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All 15 outlets

Full story

TSA Wait Time Tracker

The feature offers lane-specific estimates for standard security and TSA PreCheck.

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Jason Birnbaum said the app lets customers know what to expect and better plan their trip.

SourcesTechCrunchTechCrunchNBC 5 ChicagoNBC 5 ChicagoPR NewswirePR Newswire

Shutdown Context

The TSA wait time rollout comes after the DHS shutdown left TSA agents working without pay for over 45 days.

Most agents began receiving back pay earlier in the week following an executive order.

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Android AuthorityAndroid Authority

The app also streamlines AirTag baggage tracking.

SourcesNewsNationNewsNationLive and Let's FlyLive and Let's Fly9to5Mac9to5Mac

Pilot Limitations

The tracker is initially a pilot covering seven hub airports, not all US airports.

“Pilot program adding estimated TSA wait times to United's award-winning mobile app”

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Estimates rely on TSA data supplemented by United’s internal analytics.

United also expanded a silicone ring bag tag program with Apple.

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Mixed Market Reaction

United's stock climbed more than 8% following the announcement.

The TSA tracker is part of a broader push to regain customer trust.

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Crain's Chicago BusinessCrain's Chicago Business

The initiative highlights how airlines leverage data to enhance transparency.