Fast-Lane Airport Security Arrives for Virgin America Fliers

Darren Booth | CNBC

Certain Virgin America road warriors can now zip through airport security a bit more quickly, as the carrier becomes the sixth to join the TSA PreCheck program.

Fliers on Virgin who have been approved for Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler programs, including Global Entry, are automatically eligible for TSA PreCheck as of June 1.

(Read More: Get Out of My Way! TSA PreCheck Program Expands)

Later this year, Virigin will send personal invitations to travelers enrolled in its Elevate frequent-flier program.

(Read More: Virgin America Extends Elite Offer to American, Southwest, United Fliers)

Other participating airlines in TSA PreCheck are Alaska, American, Delta, United and US Airways.

How PreCheck Works

If the TSA determines a passenger is eligible for expedited screening, information is embedded in the bar code of his or her boarding pass. A TSA officer scans the pass at the document-checking station to verify PreCheck status.

Once past the ID check, travelers are able to leave shoes, belts and light outerwear on, as well as keep laptops and approved liquids inside cases. They also generally pass through only a metal detector versus a full-body scanner.

(Read More: TSA Eliminates All-Invasive, 'Gumby' X-Ray Machines)

No passenger is ever guaranteed fast-lane access, as the TSA continues to incorporate random screening measures. More than 10 million people have received expedited screening through PreCheck since the initiative began in October 2011, according to the TSA.

For more information on Virgin America's participation, click here.