DOT and TSA implement "self-select" program at Honolulu International Airport

The state Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are pleased to announce the implementation of TSA’s Diamond Self-Select Lanes program at the Honolulu International Airport (HNL).  The program will begin on September 11, 2008, at approximately 5:00 a.m. at the HNL security checkpoint that serves primarily passengers traveling on United, Northwest, Continental, and American Airlines (Checkpoint 5). 

The Self-Select Lanes process designates separate security screening lanes for three categories of travelers, and the traveler decides which lane to go through for inspection.  Each lane will have signage to designate accommodations for the following specific types of travelers:

1. Expert (Black Diamond sign):  Frequent travelers who know TSA procedures, ready with items already removed for inspection, travels light.
2. Casual (Blue Square sign):  Travelers who are somewhat familiar with TSA procedures, has multiple carry-ons.
3. Family/Special Assistance (Green Circle sign): Families with small children, elderly passengers, groups of people, those needing assistance, not familiar with TSA procedures,  or anyone who needs special assistance or extra time navigating security.

"The program's goals are to create a calmer environment at the airport security checkpoint, while making the screening experience less stressful and more user-friendly for travelers,” said Glen Kajiyama, TSA’s federal security director for Honolulu International Airport.  “A calmer checkpoint makes it easier for security officers to identify persons exhibiting certain suspicious behaviors."

TSA Customer Service Officers or the State's Visitors Information Program personnel will be available to assist travelers in choosing the most suitable checkpoint lane.

 “Once the program is running smoothly at one of our busiest checkpoints, we will look at how we can expand the program to other high volume checkpoints at Honolulu International Airport," said Brian Sekiguchi, deputy director of the state Airports Division.

The Diamond Self-Select Lanes program at other U.S. airports has had positive results, with the biggest decrease in checkpoint alarm rates in the Casual and Family Lanes. Expert Lane throughput has increased up to 35 percent during peak times with approximately 40 percent of passengers utilizing these lanes which are appreciated by “on-the-go” business travelers.  Passengers report the environment is calmer and less stressful, particularly in the Family Lanes where they have more time to prepare for screening and do not feel as rushed and pressured as they did previously.

The Diamond Self-Select Lanes program concept was first introduced at Salt Lake City and Denver airports in February 2008.  To date, 36 other airports across the country have implemented the program, with more than 50 expected to participate by October.  To date, about 300,000 passengers use self-select lanes every day, equal to about 15 percent of the entire traveling public.