Trump administration restores US Global Entry system after industry backlash

Restoration of the fast-track Global Entry system for international travellers to the US after being halted last month has been welcomed by the trade.

The re-introduction of the scheme by the Triump administration is seen as a measure to mitigate airport disruption during the fourth week of a funding stand-off leading to partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security.

Global Entry and PreCheck lanes at US airports are two schemes run by the Transport Security Administration (TSA) and US Customs and Border Protection to allow previously screened and registered travellers to move through security and customs more quickly in separate lanes.

Access to Global Entry, long promoted by the US government as a time-saving benefit for frequent international travellers, was reinstated on Wednesday morning following industry lobbying after being suspended on February 22. 

Global Entry is a US Trusted Traveller programme with a $120, five-year membership fee that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, “low-risk” travellers on arrival in the US. Applicants must undergo background checks before being approved. 

Department of Homeland Security also initially planned to suspend the TSA PreCheck, but later reversed that decision.

The US Travel Association had argued that Global Entry, with more than 13 million members, is on the front line of national security as applicants must undergo “rigorous” background checks, interviews and vetting. 

President and chief exccutive Geoff Freeman said: "We welcome today’s decision by the White House and leaders at US Customs and Border Protection to reopen Global Entry and reaffirm the value of Trusted Traveller Programmes.

"Over the last two weeks, the travel industry has been clear about the role programmes like Global Entry and TSA PreCheck play in both security and efficiency.

"Through outreach to members of Congress and administration officials, collaboration across the travel sector, and strong public engagement, we highlighted a simple reality: Trusted Traveler Programmes enhance security while keeping travel moving.

"Today’s step is an important one, but Congress must also act to support the transportation security officers who keep our aviation system functioning. These essential employees continue to report to work without pay during the partial government shutdown, and they deserve to be compensated without delay.

"The travel industry will continue working with policymakers to ensure these programs remain strong and that the aviation workforce gets the support it needs."

Andrea Caulfield-Smith, managing director of global business travel for Advantage Travel Partnership, had warned that suspension of Global Entry risked queues and longer security checks on arrival at US airports.