Secure Traveler Information: Southwest Airlines' Priority

Southwest Airlines offers a TSA PreCheck line, which allows travellers to speed through security without removing their coat, shoes, or laptop. The Known Traveller Number (KTN) is a unique number issued by the U.S. Government to identify customers who participate in a known traveller program. This number can be added to your profile, which will automatically add it to future bookings, or manually to each flight reservation.

How to add your Known Traveler Number to a new reservation

To add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to a new reservation, you must first add it to your profile in your Rapid Rewards account. Log into your account and click on "My Preferences" at the bottom of the page, then select "Edit". You can also add your KTN to your profile on the Southwest website.

If you have already booked a flight and need to add your KTN, you can do so by calling Southwest customer service, using the Southwest app, or by visiting an agent at the airport on the day of your travel. You will need your confirmation number and name to log in and make changes to your reservation.

If you have not yet booked your flight, ensure you are logged in to your account with your KTN when booking, and the system will automatically populate it into your new reservation.

How to add your Known Traveler Number to an existing reservation

To add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to an existing reservation with Southwest Airlines, you can follow the steps outlined below:

Firstly, you can add your KTN to your Rapid Rewards account by logging into your account and clicking on "My Preferences" at the bottom of the page. From there, you can edit your information and add your KTN.

If you have already made a reservation and need to add your KTN, you have a few options:

• Call Southwest customer service at 1-800-I-FLY-SWA and have a representative add the KTN to your reservation.
• Use the following link to add your KTN online: https://www.southwest.com/flight/addSecureInfoEntry.html. You will need your confirmation number and name for this option.
• Visit a Southwest agent at the airport on the day of your travel, and they can assist you with adding the KTN to your reservation.

If you have the Southwest app, you can also try using the live chat function to speak with an agent and request them to add your KTN. Alternatively, you can send a direct message to @SouthwestAir on Twitter, being mindful not to share any personal information publicly.

It is important to note that if you have already checked in online, you must call customer service to add your KTN, as it cannot be done through the app or website after check-in.

Once your KTN is added to your Rapid Rewards account, the system will automatically populate it into any new reservations you make, provided you are logged in.

How to find your Known Traveler Number

To find your Known Traveler Number (KTN), log in to your Southwest account. Your Rapid Rewards number should appear during the login process. After logging in, go to 'My Preferences' (or 'Personal') and you'll find your KTN. If you can't log in, select the 'need help checking in' option.

If you are a member of the TSA Precheck Application Program, you can look up your KTN online. If you are a member of another trusted traveler program, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI, log on to the Global Online Enrollment System (GOES) to obtain your PASSID, which is your KTN.

You can add your KTN to your profile on the Southwest website. It is not clear whether this can be done on the Southwest app. To add your KTN to a reservation, you will need your confirmation number.

Why you might not be getting TSA PreCheck

If you're enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program but aren't receiving the benefits, there are several potential reasons for this. Here are some common issues to consider:

Clerical Errors

Clerical errors are one of the most common reasons for not receiving TSA PreCheck benefits. This could include an incorrect date of birth, a misspelled name, or an incorrect government "Known Traveler Number" (KTN) on your reservation. These issues often occur when bookings are made through travel agents, who may transpose information. Even a small discrepancy, such as a missing middle name or a misplaced period, can trigger the airline security algorithm and result in the loss of your TSA PreCheck status.

Inaccurate Information

Ensure that your KTN is attached to your airline account. When you sign up for TSA PreCheck, you are assigned a KTN, which must be added to the "Secure Traveler" or "Known Traveler" section of your airline loyalty accounts. This allows the system to recognize your status and grant you TSA PreCheck automatically. If your KTN is missing or incorrect, you won't receive the benefits.

Non-Participating Airlines

Not all airlines participate in the TSA PreCheck program. If you're flying with an airline that doesn't participate, you won't be able to use the TSA PreCheck lane. Additionally, if you book a flight from a non-participating airline on a participating airline, you may not qualify for TSA PreCheck. Always check the list of participating airlines before booking your travel.

Expired Membership

TSA PreCheck memberships are valid for five years and must be renewed to continue using the benefits. Check the expiration date of your membership, and if it has expired, renew it to regain access to TSA PreCheck.

Random Denial

Even with a TSA PreCheck membership, receiving the benefits is not guaranteed every single time. The TSA employs unpredictable security measures, and occasionally, members may be denied TSA PreCheck status for a particular flight.

If you're facing issues with your TSA PreCheck status, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. First, verify that your KTN, name, date of birth, and gender are correct in your trusted traveler program profile. Then, confirm with your airline that they have the correct information. If you notice any discrepancies, update your information and contact the airline to see if they can add your KTN to your itinerary. Additionally, you can reach out to the TSA through their Twitter channel (@AskTSA) or other contact methods to seek assistance in resolving the issue.

How to renew your TSA PreCheck or TSA Global Entry membership

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry memberships are valid for five years and must be renewed for continued use. You can renew your membership online or in person at an enrollment center. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to renew your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership:

TSA PreCheck Renewal:

You can renew your TSA PreCheck membership online by visiting the official TSA PreCheck website and selecting the "Renew now" button. You will need to provide personal details and your Known Traveler Number. The renewal fee is $70 for online applications and $78 for in-person renewals. It is recommended to renew about six months before your expiration date, and you can renew up to six months in advance. The new membership period begins as the current one ends, so there is no disadvantage to renewing early.

If you have changed your name since enrollment, you can either visit an enrollment center to renew in person or update your name by contacting the enrollment provider. Name changes may take up to 45 days to complete.

Global Entry Renewal:

You can renew your Global Entry membership by logging onto the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) website. If you don't have an account, you will be directed to create one and associate it with your PASSID (membership number). From your dashboard, select the "Manage Membership" option, then click the box for Global Entry to renew. Respond "yes" to certifying your application and proceed with paying the application fees. An interview for renewal is usually not required, but this is not guaranteed.

You become eligible to renew your Global Entry membership one year before it expires, and there is no penalty for renewing early. As long as you submit a renewal application before your membership expires, you can continue using Global Entry for up to 24 months after your expiration date. Once your renewal is approved, a five-year period is added to your current membership.

General Tips:

• Have necessary documentation ready before starting the renewal process, such as work history, travel history, and vehicle information if driving across the U.S. border.
• Check your account periodically for updates on the status of your renewal application.
• Consider using a credit card that reimburses Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.

Frequently asked questions