United App Adds TSA Wait Times and New Flight Tools
United Airlines is enhancing its mobile application for iOS and Android, introducing a suite of features aimed at simplifying the airport experience. Among the most notable additions is a real-time tracker for TSA security checkpoint wait times, a tool launched as travelers navigate potential staffing challenges during the ongoing partial government shutdown.
Real-Time Security Insights
Within the “Travel” section of the app, passengers can now monitor expected wait times at major U.S. hubs. The feature provides data for standard security lanes and TSA PreCheck across terminals serviced by United in the following cities:
- Chicago
- Denver
- Houston
- Los Angeles
- New York/Newark
- San Francisco
- Washington, D.C.
Jason Birnbaum, Chief Information Officer at United, noted that the update is designed to empower passengers with better trip planning capabilities. “We appreciate the work and professionalism of our TSA agents, and while most began receiving back pay earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security shutdown continues and people want to stay informed about expected security wait times at our airports,” Birnbaum stated in a press release.
Navigation and Connection Support
The update goes beyond security tracking, focusing heavily on the experience of passengers with tight connections. The app now offers turn-by-turn navigation to departure gates, including estimated walking times and real-time status updates.
To further reduce stress during travel, the platform can now provide a “heads up” notification if the airline is able to hold a flight for passengers arriving on delayed connecting services.
Streamlined Rebooking and Baggage Tracking
United has also overhauled its self-service tools for irregular operations. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, passengers can now bypass long customer service lines. The app provides automated rebooking options directly on the screen, alongside details on baggage tracking and access to meal or hotel vouchers when applicable.
Additionally, the app has adopted Apple’s “Share Item Location” integration. Travelers using an AirTag or other Find My network-enabled devices can now securely share their luggage location with United’s customer service team to expedite the recovery of lost bags.
Finally, the airline is introducing text-based updates that include radar maps. These tools are designed to keep passengers informed about how regional weather patterns may impact flight schedules across the country.