Are TSA e-gates rolling out soon?

TSA is trialing new high-tech “e-gates” at major East Coast airports, with the goal of changing how passengers move through security. Travelers in recent weeks may notice a different setup in the screening area, and the trials suggest TSA is testing whether automated or semi-automated processing can reduce friction at busy checkpoints.

For travelers, the practical takeaway is to expect that security lines and scanner flow may vary by airport—and possibly by terminal or time window—depending on whether e-gates are active. That can affect how long you should budget for clearance, especially if you’re traveling at peak periods.

Because this is described as a quiet rollout and a trial, details like which specific airports will deploy e-gates most broadly, how eligibility is determined (for example, whether certain travelers are directed elsewhere), and whether travelers will still need the same document/bag preparation are not fully spelled out.

Still, this matters because security is often the biggest time driver for trips that involve tight itineraries, connections, or early departures. If you’re departing from an East Coast hub this season, consider leaving extra time for unknown queue dynamics and keep your screening routine consistent (e.g., organizing electronics and liquids where needed).

In short: e-gates are being tested, airports may look different from what you’ve experienced before, and building buffer time is the safest way to protect your schedule.