United Airlines App Now Predicts TSA Wait Times

New feature estimates security line delays at major hubs.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:36am

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United Airlines has launched a new feature on its mobile app that provides estimated wait times for getting through TSA security checkpoints at its seven major domestic hub airports, including O'Hare International Airport in Chicago. The app can even predict wait times for specific security lanes, from standard screening to TSA PreCheck.

Why it matters

This new app capability aims to help United passengers better plan their airport arrival and security screening process, reducing stress and improving the overall travel experience. As a major airline, United's move to provide this data could set a new industry standard and encourage other carriers to follow suit.

The details

The wait time prediction feature uses real-time data to estimate how long it will take passengers to get through security at United's hub airports, which include Chicago O'Hare, Newark, Houston, Denver, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Washington Dulles. The app can break down the wait times for specific TSA screening lanes, allowing travelers to choose the fastest option.

  • United Airlines launched the new app feature on April 1, 2026.

The players

United Airlines

A major U.S. airline and one of the largest carriers in the world, operating a hub-and-spoke network with key airports in cities across the United States.

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What’s next

United says it plans to expand the TSA wait time prediction feature to additional airports in the future, providing more comprehensive data to help its passengers plan their travel.

The takeaway

United's new app feature demonstrates the airline industry's efforts to leverage technology and data to improve the overall travel experience for passengers, addressing common pain points like long security lines.