A test program designed to speed up security checks for frequent fliers will be rolled out at the nation’s busiest airports by the end of the year, including Kennedy Airport, US officials announced Wednesday.

The Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program would allow travelers who volunteer information about themselves before flying to pass through airport security faster. Participants would no longer have to remove their shoes and belts during security checks, nor would they have to take laptops out of theirs bags to be screened separately.

“TSA PreCheck moves us closer to our goal of delivering the most effective and efficient screening by recognizing that most passengers do not pose a threat to security,” said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole in a statement.

“We are pleased to expand this important effort, in collaboration with our airline and airport partners, as we move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to a more intelligence-driven, risk-based transportation security system.”

Eligible travelers include some frequent fliers from participating airlines as well as members of Customs and Border Protection’s Trusted Traveler programs.

The TSA said the program has been successful at its seven pilot locations at airports in Dallas, Miami, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Atlanta and Detroit, where more than 336,000 passengers have participated.

By the end of 2012, the program will be brought to 28 additional airports, including Kennedy Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.

(Source: NY Post)