By Fae Fox | ABC 33/40
Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) rolled out new biometric eGates in partnership with CLEAR+, marking a major step forward in modernizing the travel experience.
CLEAR+ members used the eGates to verify their identities in under five seconds, bypassing TSA podiums and proceeding directly to physical screening and bag check. The technology aims to reduce wait times, particularly during peak travel periods, such as the Thanksgiving holiday, when the TSA recorded its busiest day ever, screening more than 3.1 million travelers.
“The eGates have been great. Anything that speeds up the process is helpful. I travel a lot and when new systems like this are rolled out, it’s really great,” said Holly Wyatt, a traveler.
The initiative reflects CLEAR’s goal of helping travelers “win the day” by streamlining airport security. The company also anticipates the technology will be vital for upcoming major events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the America 250 celebrations, which are expected to bring millions of visitors to the U.S.
“Holidays are super busy and it seems like they’re moving through pretty fast,” added Katie Nelson, another traveler.
BHM now joins a growing list of airports using the eGate technology, enhancing automation at security checkpoints and reducing physical contact.
“I like it where I don’t have to touch anything; if I can just roll right through, that’s really what you want. If we can be safe and do that, then I’m all for it,” Wyatt said.
The rollout happened on Dec 17th and follows successful launches at nearly 25 airports nationwide, including Atlanta, Miami, and New York.
CLEAR+ is preparing for a surge in travel next year, aiming to support smoother, faster experiences for millions of travelers across the country.
