CLEAR today announced the launch of biometric eGates at select U.S. airports, part of a broader push to modernize air travel ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The new automated eGates are intended to streamline passenger processing while providing a scalable system to boost airport security. The pilot builds on TSA’s efforts to modernize airport checkpoints, aiming to improve security and the passenger experience. As the first program of its kind, it marks a public–private partnership designed to expand identity verification and speed up processing ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
With more than 20 million international visitors expected for the FIFA World Cup 2026—and domestic travel set to surge through U.S. host cities—airport checkpoints are bracing for heavy demand. CLEAR says it will fund new security and passenger-experience upgrades at no cost to taxpayers.
Starting this month, these eGates will debut at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), and Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), with CLEAR planning to expand the eGate implementation across its nationwide network of airports in preparation for the World Cup, America’s 250th anniversary celebration and continuing growth in domestic air travel.
CLEAR’s eGates use real-time biometric verification to match a traveler’s face with their ID and boarding pass. TSA maintains full control of operations — including gate access, security vetting, and compliance with federal requirements. CLEAR handles only limited data, such as photos and boarding pass details, and has no access to watchlists or authority over TSA decisions. Once verified, passengers move directly to physical screening, bypassing the TSA podium but completing all required checks.
