TSA creating trusted flyer program

Washington (CNN) — After hinting for months that he would start a “trusted traveler” program to expedite security screening for air passengers, TSA Chief John Pistole took his first step in that direction Thursday, announcing a pilot program to ease screening for passengers who voluntarily release certain information about themselves.

The pilot test is based on U.S. customs programs and initially will be available only to certain participants in the customs program and a limited number of air travelers. Those include certain frequent fliers on two airlines — American and Delta — flying out of certain airports. Delta passengers must be flying out of Atlanta and Detroit airports, and American Airlines passengers must be flying out of Miami and Dallas airports.

But if it is successful, the program would likely be expanded to include other air travelers who voluntarily give additional information about themselves.