TSA to build Registered Traveler info network

A centralized information network will be created to aggregate, store and distribute data to all entities participating in Registered Traveler, according to a new business model for the program released by the Transportation Security Administration this week.

Registered Traveler is a program in which passengers can obtain quicker processing at airports in exchange for providing biometrics and submitting to an advanced screening. It is a fee-based program expected to roll out in 10 to 20 airports in the second half of 2006.

Under TSA's proposed business model, contractors include enrollment providers, who will collect fees and biographic information and issue ID cards to participating travelers, and verification providers, who will confirm the traveler's identity at the airport. The enrollment and verification providers may be the same entity, TSA said.

The Central Information Management System, an entity separate from TSA, would be established to receive, aggregate and format applicant data received from the enrollment providers, according to the business model document. The system will be a "commercially neutral entity meant to support an open market place," the model stated.

The centralized system will be created by memorandums of understanding between the participating entities. All service providers would participate in the central network.

The central system must check for duplication among applications, and transmit applicant data to TSA for carrying out threat assessments. The system also must receive determination of eligibility from TSA and manage a list of revoked credentials.

TSA said it will issue detailed standards for the service providers and other entities in June and begin rulemaking for Registered Traveler as a national program later this year.