American Airlines Launches Innovative Program to Streamline International Passenger Transit in the U.S.
American Airlines, in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), has launched a groundbreaking program set to transform the experience for international passengers. Through the International Remote Baggage Screening (IRBS) initiative, the airline aims to reduce connection times and improve transit efficiency without compromising security standards.
What is International Remote Baggage Screening?
The new system will allow passengers arriving in the U.S. from select international airports to bypass the traditional customs process of reclaiming and rechecking their luggage. With IRBS, travelers will proceed directly from CBP passport control to a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) checkpoint, continuing seamlessly to their connecting flight.
This advancement relies on technology that enables remote baggage screening without altering current security requirements. The goal is clear: to make international travel more agile, comfortable, and secure.
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Pilot Program on Sydney-Los Angeles Route
This week, the pilot program began on the daily route between Sydney’s Kingsford Smith International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport. In this initial phase, American Airlines, CBP, and the Sydney Airport Authority are working together to test and optimize the new system.
Gary Tomasulo, Vice President of Global Corporate Security at American, emphasized the importance of technology and collaboration: “We are thrilled to partner with CBP on this innovative initiative. By working with Sydney Airport and our technology partners BagCheck and Brock Solutions, we enhance security while simplifying the baggage screening process, making global travel smoother and more convenient for our customers.”
Graham White, Head of Security at Sydney Airport, also celebrated the launch: “It’s fantastic to support American Airlines and CBP in this proposal, which marks a significant positive shift in the passenger experience for those transiting through U.S. ports. Our priorities are safety, efficiency, and service, and this collaboration allows us to deliver on all three.”
Part of a Broader Plan: Airport Modernization
IRBS falls under CBP’s Airport Modernization Plan, a broader strategy to enhance security and traveler experience by deploying cutting-edge technologies at U.S. Federal Inspection Sites (FIS).
Through this partnership, American Airlines and CBP are advancing their shared mission of safeguarding national security while ensuring efficient transit for U.S. citizens and international visitors alike.
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Plataforma Informativa de Aviación Comercial líder en América Latina.