Airport Security Chaos Streamlined for Children in 2026

Air travel with young children can be overwhelming, especially when juggling strollers and little ones who may not understand how to navigate airport security.

With airport screening over 2.4 million passengers on busy days like January 11, 2026, families are seeking solutions during the post-holiday surge.

To address this challenge, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) launched a new initiative, "Families on the Fly," in 2025.

This program introduces dedicated family lanes at select airports to reduce stress and improve the screening experience, while maintaining high security standards.

These family-friendly lanes are available to parents or guardians traveling with children aged 12 and under. The entire family group—including grandparents, aunts, uncles, or any accompanying adults—can use the lane.

Designated TSA officers are on hand to assist, making the process more accommodating and patient. Additionally, family lanes help reduce congestion in standard lanes, benefiting all travelers by improving overall efficiency.

In July 2025, Adam Stahl, the Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy TSA Administrator, stated, "The Families on the Fly campaign, being rolled out at select airports, aims to mitigate the challenges families encounter while traveling and minimize stress, all while maintaining the highest level of security."

He also encouraged families to "look for clear signage at participating TSA checkpoints directing them to the appropriate area."

The program began at high-traffic family destinations such as Orlando International Airport and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, and it has since expanded to various other airports.

For the latest list of participating airports, you can check the official TSA website at tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/families-fly.

Additional Perks for Families Beyond dedicated lanes include TSA PreCheck benefits for kids. Children aged 17 and under can join their parents in PreCheck lanes for free, with specific rules: those aged 12 and under can join automatically, while those aged 13 to 17 require the PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass.

Families needing extra help can also contact TSA Cares for dedicated assistance with navigation, belongings, or child-specific needs.

Additionally, the My TSA app provides information on wait times, allowed items, and traveler tips.

For land border crossings with Canada and Mexico, the Border Wait Time app offers hourly updates.

When planning vacation trips or family reunions in 2026, "Families on the Fly" demonstrates the TSA's commitment to providing smarter, more welcoming security.

Furthermore, to mitigate health risk when traveling in 2026, the U.S. CDC recommends several core and travel vaccinations depending on destination, so check the CDC's Yellow Book and talk to your provider for specific travel needs like Yellow Fever or Japanese Encephalitis vaccines