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The change is scheduled to take effect later this year.
A KCM access point during testing (Photo: ALPA)
The Transportation Security Administration will transition away from the Known Crewmember program by the end of 2025, an agency spokesperson confirmed Friday. The program ‒ which allows registered flight crew to bypass the typical TSA screening process ‒ was first established in 2011.
In a statement to AirlineGeeks, the TSA spokesperson added that this change “represents a broad security enhancement that has been in development for years.” There are nearly 200 dedicated KCM access points at 112 airports throughout the U.S.
Following the late 2025 transition, crew members will still have access to a tailored and expedited screening process.
Crew members, including pilots and flight attendants, at both approved scheduled and charter carriers can participate in KCM following a background check. Crew are able to use these access points while on duty and for personal domestic travel.
While only an identity verification is required to enter the airside area, crew members are subject to random screening.
NATA ‒ an industry security services provider ‒ also confirmed the pivot away from KCM.
By late November 2025, the TSA will switch to a new system called the Crewmember Access Point Program (CMAP). The TSA stopped short of providing details on CMAP, but NATA outlined a few initial changes, including passport information requirements and biometric verification.
“NATA CS is actively working with TSA to ensure a smooth and streamlined transition from KCM® to CMAP within its safety and security platform,” the firm said on its website.”Our team is proactively updating our training, compliance and data management systems to meet CMAP requirements, ensuring you can participate in both KCM® and CMAP programs effortlessly until the transition to the CMAP; there is no need for you to complete a new enrollment.”
The TSA spokesperson added: “TSA plans to implement the Crewmember Access Point program (CMAP), which is a security improvement and successor to the current Known Crewmember Program. The new CMAP, when implemented, will provide opted-in, eligible crew members with expedited access to the sterile areas at participating airports.”
KCM was jointly developed by the Air Line Pilots Association and trade group Airlines for America. The TSA later approved the program.
Airlines for America declined to comment on the change, instead directing inquiries to the TSA. The agency spokesperson shared that it is working with the group on CMAP.
Representatives from ALPA and the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA also did not provide comment.
Editor’s Note: This story was updated on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, at 7:16 p.m. ET to clarify that crew will still have access to an expedited screening process following the transition.Â
Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
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