What To Know
- While the Alaska Airlines credit card does not directly cover TSA PreCheck, its Mileage Plan program provides a way to use miles to offset the cost.
- By understanding the benefits of TSA PreCheck, the options for covering the cost, and the factors to consider, you can make an informed decision about whether TSA PreCheck is right for you and how to use your Alaska Airlines miles wisely.
- Yes, you can use 5,250 Alaska Airlines miles to purchase a 5-year TSA PreCheck membership or submit a reimbursement request after paying for it.
Traveling through airport security can be a hassle, but the TSA PreCheck program aims to make it smoother and more efficient. Passengers who are enrolled in TSA PreCheck can enjoy expedited screening, saving them time and stress. If you’re considering applying for TSA PreCheck, you may be wondering if the Alaska Airlines credit card can help you cover the cost. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the details and answer the question: does the Alaska Airlines credit card cover TSA PreCheck?
Benefits of TSA PreCheck
Before diving into the credit card benefits, let’s discuss the advantages of TSA PreCheck:
- Expedited Screening: Members can bypass long security lines and go through a dedicated PreCheck lane, significantly reducing wait times.
- Simplified Process: No need to remove shoes, jackets, or laptops, making the screening process quicker and more convenient.
- Peace of Mind: PreCheck provides a sense of security and makes travel less stressful.
Alaska Airlines Credit Cards and TSA PreCheck
Does the Alaska Airlines credit card cover TSA PreCheck? The answer is no. Unfortunately, none of the Alaska Airlines credit cards currently offer TSA PreCheck as a direct benefit. However, there are other ways to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck using Alaska Airlines miles.
Earning Alaska Airlines Miles
You can earn Alaska Airlines miles through various methods:
- Flying on Alaska Airlines or its partner airlines
- Using the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan credit card for everyday purchases
- Participating in Alaska Airlines promotions and loyalty programs
Using Alaska Airlines Miles for TSA PreCheck
Once you have accumulated enough Alaska Airlines miles, you can use them to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck:
1. Purchase TSA PreCheck Membership: You can use 5,250 Alaska Airlines miles to purchase a 5-year TSA PreCheck membership.
2. Reimburse TSA PreCheck Cost: If you have already paid for TSA PreCheck, you can submit a reimbursement request to Alaska Airlines and use your miles to cover the cost.
Other Ways to Cover TSA PreCheck Cost
If you don’t have enough Alaska Airlines miles, you can also consider these alternative options:
- Credit Cards with TSA PreCheck Benefits: Some credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve and American Express Platinum Card, offer TSA PreCheck as a benefit.
- Global Entry: Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck as part of the membership.
- NEXUS: NEXUS members also receive TSA PreCheck benefits.
Factors to Consider
Before using Alaska Airlines miles for TSA PreCheck, consider the following:
- Value of Miles: Alaska Airlines miles can be valuable for booking flights and other travel experiences. Evaluate if using miles for TSA PreCheck is the best way to maximize their value.
- Frequency of Travel: If you travel frequently, TSA PreCheck can be a worthwhile investment. However, if you travel infrequently, it may not be necessary.
- Other Benefits: Consider the other benefits offered by the Alaska Airlines credit card and whether they align with your travel needs.
The Bottom Line: Navigating TSA PreCheck with Alaska Airlines
While the Alaska Airlines credit card does not directly cover TSA PreCheck, its Mileage Plan program provides a way to use miles to offset the cost. By understanding the benefits of TSA PreCheck, the options for covering the cost, and the factors to consider, you can make an informed decision about whether TSA PreCheck is right for you and how to use your Alaska Airlines miles wisely.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q1: Does the Alaska Airlines credit card offer a TSA PreCheck discount?
A1: No, the Alaska Airlines credit card does not currently offer a direct TSA PreCheck discount or benefit.
Q2: Can I use Alaska Airlines miles to pay for TSA PreCheck?
A2: Yes, you can use 5,250 Alaska Airlines miles to purchase a 5-year TSA PreCheck membership or submit a reimbursement request after paying for it.
Q3: What other credit cards offer TSA PreCheck benefits?
A3: Credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and American Express Platinum Card include TSA PreCheck as a benefit.
