Some fliers may be able to bring water through TSA checkpoints soon, officials say

Senior administration officials revealed on Wednesday that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is contemplating permitting TSA PreCheck passengers to carry water bottles through security checkpoints at a limited number of airports in the near future. This possible adjustment would initially be implemented at airports equipped with advanced CT screening technology and automated detection systems capable of distinguishing water from other liquids and identifying potential threats.

However, the exact airports to be part of the new program have not been disclosed. The TSA has not made a decision to lift all restrictions on liquids, and the current 3-1-1 rule, which limits carry-on liquids to containers of 3.4 ounces or less, remains in effect. Although the technology for scanning entire bottles of liquid exists, the TSA has not acquired the necessary equipment at the required scale for nationwide implementation, even for PreCheck users.

The agency lacks the funding to pursue such a project. The development follows the recent launch of the Gateside by TSA program for PreCheck travelers, which allows approved PreCheck members without airline tickets to bypass security and enter gate areas at 13 airports. The program is expected to expand further after the TSA assesses passenger volumes and operational impacts of the initial rollout.

TSA PreCheck is a government-run program that enables travelers to avoid standard security lines and undergo expedited screening instead. The program costs between $85 and $85 for five years, depending on the authorized enrollment provider. PreCheck members undergo a security check before being approved, with the expedited screening process typically taking around 10 minutes.