US federal authorities have introduced Express Connection to help ensure passengers make connecting flights. As soon as an airline knows a plane is late staff scan passenger lists to see who has a connecting flight and when. They flag those passengers who look like they may be in danger of missing their connections and meet then at the gate upon arrival to present them with bright-orange cards that allow them into the short, fast-moving customs lines.
Authorities say the program, which is currently only in force in Chicago O’Hare aiport, is saving airlines millions of dollars that would otherwise be spent rebooking passengers who miss their connecting flights.
The program could be introduced at other major U.S. airports with large numbers of international flights. Los Angeles International Airport and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport are among those that have expressed interest.