A recent survey conducted by Ipsos for the U.S. Travel Association reveals that a vast majority of American air travelers are in favor of using biometric technology to confirm passenger identity at airport security checkpoints. The survey, released following record air travel over Labor Day weekend, underscores travelers’ preference for next-generation security measures that enhance safety and efficiency.

According to the survey, 79% of air travelers, including 80% of Democrats and 76% of Republicans, support the use of biometric screening at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints. This bipartisan support highlights a collective desire for improved security and streamlined travel experiences. Furthermore, 92% of Americans and 95% of air travelers agree that verifying traveler identity is a critical TSA measure to protect public safety.

Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, emphasized the importance of this technology, stating, “By overwhelming margins, air travelers support TSA’s use of biometric technology at airports to strengthen security and improve the travel experience. Travelers embrace next-generation technology at the same time a small cadre of members of Congress seek to take air travel back to the Dark Ages.”

One of the key reasons for traveler support of biometrics is its potential to enhance security. Seventy-one percent of survey respondents cited stopping terrorism and human trafficking as primary motivations, while 66% noted the increased safety at airports. Additionally, more than half of Americans are more inclined to support biometrics knowing that data would be deleted shortly after the trip, used solely to prevent terrorism, and safeguarded from being shared with other agencies.

Freeman further pointed out that, with major global sporting events on the horizon in the U.S., there is an urgent need for Washington to invest in biometric technology at airports to accommodate the millions of visitors expected in the coming years. The U.S. Travel Association’s Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel, led by former Acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan, is currently conducting a year-long study to improve the U.S.'s global travel competitiveness. A report with recommendations is expected this fall.

As the demand for safer and more efficient travel grows, it is clear that biometric screening is widely viewed as the future of airport security in the U.S. Public support, coupled with the TSA’s growing adoption of this technology, suggests that biometrics will play an increasingly prominent role in ensuring a seamless and secure travel experience for all.