United updates app with security wait times and rebooking tools

United Airlines is updating its iOS and Android mobile apps with several new features, including estimated security wait times to give travelers a better idea of when they should arrive at the airport. The update is a direct response to the fact that the ongoing partial government shutdown has left TSA checkpoints understaffed. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA)—the U.S. government agency responsible for airport security checkpoints affected by the shutdown—has faced staffing challenges during the shutdown, which is overseen by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Under the new update, travelers can view security wait times for specific lanes, including standard security and TSA PreCheck, across terminals serving United customers. This feature is available for the airline’s U.S. hub airports in the following cities:

• Chicago
• Denver
• Houston
• Los Angeles
• New York/Newark
• San Francisco
• Washington, D.C.

Beyond security updates, the mobile app now provides automatic rebooking assistance for delayed or canceled flights. Instead of waiting in line to speak with an agent or manually searching for alternatives, United’s self-service tools will automatically present travelers with rebooking options. The app will also provide baggage-tracking details and meal and hotel vouchers if they are eligible for them, in cases where a flight is delayed or canceled.

Additionally, the app integrates Apple’s “Share Item Location” feature for AirTag. This integration allows travelers who use an AirTag or other Find My network accessory to share their item’s location with United’s customer service team. This feature is designed to assist with lost baggage, allowing customer service to track the location of the missing items.

Jason Birnbaum, United’s chief information officer, highlighted the utility of these updates during the ongoing disruption. “We appreciate the work and professionalism of our TSA agents, and while most began receiving back pay earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security shutdown continues and people want to stay informed about expected security wait times at our airports,” Birnbaum said. He added that customers rely on the mobile app for their travel needs, and the new feature allows them to better plan their trips.

Why it matters

United is integrating real-time TSA wait times and automated rebooking tools into its mobile app to help passengers navigate travel disruptions caused by the ongoing partial government shutdown.