New Airport Rules 2025: eGates, Security, and TSA Requirements

The New rules at airports in 2025 are changing the way that passengers experience the security procedure. The rules introduce a system of electronic gates, automated and digital verification lanes, and checkpoints, which makes travel for passengers easier. With family-friendly airport lanes, travelers not having to remove shoes for a scan, these travel safety protocols make traveling through the airport a more accommodating experience. 

What are the new rules at airports in 2025?

Many new rules regarding the security checks at the airports have been introduced in 2025. Ranging from introducing new automated lanes, eGates, and Digital ID Implementation, to having dedicated family lanes, these new rules speed up the airport screening procedure and make the flying experience more convenient.

eGates

In 2025, CLEAR introduced a system of electronic gates for travelers having CLEAR+ membership, which costs $209 annually. These eGates have an inbuilt camera which takes biometrics of the traveler and verifies it with the identification documents. An initiative under the TSA public-private partnership, it helps to reduce the wait times at the TSA security checkpoints.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL),  Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) have eGate facilities.

REAL ID

Since 7 May 2005, travelers are now required to have their REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States. It is a state-issued driver’s license or identification document that meets the security standards. 

• Travelers with REAL ID have a golden or black star marking at the top right of the card. It can be obtained by visiting the state’s driver’s licensing agency and submitting the required documents. (insert image)

For traveling domestically in the US, you need a valid form of identification, either a REAL ID or a passport. 

Automated Screening Lanes

Automated Screening lanes have been introduced in several airports in 2025, which streamlines the screening process for carry-on bags and electronics. There are now multiple stations and dual rails through which travelers can place their items on automated bins that move through the screening lane. 

• Electronics larger than a mobile phone are placed in these bins. Passengers without a TSA Pre-Check need to keep their shoes and packed liquids for this screening on the bin.
• The bins have an RFID chip for tracking the baggage. If redirected for secondary check to TSA, they can be tracked.
• The CT Scanner is also a new introduction that gives a 3D view of the baggage items to the TSA officer. Airports having CT Scanners do not need travelers to remove their electronic items from their bags. 

Airports in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Atlanta have automated screening lanes.   

Self Screening Lanes

The United States Department of Homeland Security, with the Science and Technology Directorate, has introduced the feature of self-screening lanes in the new airport security rules. After placing the carry bags in the Automated Screening Lanes, travelers can enter the portal on the sides to get screened.  

• These lanes have automatic entry and exit doors that open after the traveler has successfully passed the screening. If an alarm is sounded, the traveler has to exit from the lane and remove the electronic object, then get re-scanned.

Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas and Baltimore-Washington International Airport have these security check lanes.

Digital ID Implementation 

TSA has introduced checkpoints for Digital ID implementation at airport terminals. Travelers can tap their driver’s license or a valid ID saved in the Google or Apple wallet in their phone at the CAT 2 Reader.

• The Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) requires the traveler to get their photo taken for verification.
• Travelers can opt out of this system of authentication and have the standard authentication process if they have any privacy concerns. 

Liquid Rules

The liquid rules have changed in specific airports like Edinburgh and Birmingham, where travelers can keep 2L liquid items in their carry bags. This new airport rule was introduced only because of the availability of advanced CT Scanners, which provide a 3D view of the bag. 

However, in most international airports, the 3.4 ounces/100ml rule is still in place. 

The 3-1-1 rule instructs travelers to have only 3.4 ounces of liquid or gels, 1 quart-sized bag, and 1 bag per passenger. 

Shoe Removal Policy Changed 

On 8 July 2025, a new policy was introduced that allows travelers to keep their shoes on during the security screening process. This policy was introduced with the arrival of new technology, which can scan shoes for threats without the need for removal. 

Separate Family Lanes

The TSA is introducing a “Families on the Fly” campaign in 2025, under which airports will have separate lanes for families traveling through the airports. This feature was rolled out to streamline the screening and security processes for parents and their children and ensure an accommodating experience.  

• Under this campaign, TSA will also offer a discount on TSA Pre-Check fees for families and a separate Pre-Check lane for families of military service members.

Salt Lake City International Airport, Charleston International Airport, and John Wayne Airport have these lanes.

Tips Before Traveling Through Airports in 2025

• Check the TSA requirements beforehand to get through airport security faster.
• Ensure that you are up to date with the changes in the rules and policies of the aviation industry.
• Make sure to have all the documents handy, both physical and digital IDs.
• Read the list of forbidden and allowed items while traveling through airports to ensure a smooth screening experience.
• Contact the TSA officials in case of any problems with the new security technologies.

Conclusion 

The new rules at airports can help provide passengers with a smooth experience and enhance security effectiveness. Keeping in mind the requirements of TSA, and having documents like REAL ID readily available, travelers can get through the security check comparably faster than before.  

Frequently Asked Questions