Mobile App at BWI New Tool to Prevent Airport Travel Delays

HANOVER, MD — A mobile app aimed at speeding up the entry of international passengers who arrive at Baltimore/Washington International Airport has been launched by customs officials, the latest move to trim the wait time for airport users.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection said the Mobile Passport Control app was expanded Friday for use at BWI, which becomes the 18th airport to offer the app-based admission processing.

The first authorized app to expedite a traveler’s arrival into the country requires travelers submit their passport information and customs declaration form to Customs and Border Protection via a smartphone or tablet app prior to arrival.Android and iPhone users can download the Mobile Passport app for free from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

“CBP is committed to using technological advances and resources to make international arrivals as traveler-friendly as possible,”said Augustine Moore, director of field operations in Baltimore, in a news release.“Collaborations with stakeholders in Baltimore make these enhancements possible while maintaining the highest level of security standards.”

»SEE ALSO: Summer Travel Nightmares: TSA Has Tips for Maryland Fliers

Much like Automated Passport Control, which is also available at BWI, the app does not require pre-approval, is free to use, and does not collect any new information from travelers. Travelers opting to use the app will no longer have to complete a paper customs declaration form. That should translate to shorter wait times, less congestion and faster processing for fliers.

There are five steps to MPC:

• Download the Mobile Passport Control App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store before arriving
• Create a profile with your passport information
• Complete the “New Trip” section upon arrival in the United States
• Submit your Customs declaration form through the app to receive an electronic receipt with an encrypted QR code
• Bring your passport and smartphone or tablet with your digital bar-coded receipt to a Customs officer

The app launched in August 2014 at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and has since expanded to 16 airports, including Washington Dulles International Airport.

With BWI in the midst of a busy summer season, the Transportation Security Administration earlier this summer shared a few tips for Maryland travelers to ease screening process is to prepare. One tip is to arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance of a domestic flight and three hours in advance of an international flight, and to follow the 3-1-1 rule: when packing toiletries, have no more than 3.4 ounces of liquid in a 1-quart plastic bag, and no more than one bag for every person.

Wear shoes that are easy to get on and off as you go through security screening.

Prepare by emptying your pockets before heading through the checkpoint screening equipment.SUBSCRIBE

Also, make sure you don't have any prohibited items.

Following that advice should lead to a "smooth checkpoint experience," the TSA says.

Travelers are encouraged to follow these tips:

• Arrive early. Up to two hours before a domestic flight and three hours in advance of an international flight.
• Prepare for security when packing. Put large liquids, gels, creams and aerosols into checked bags -- think shampoo, conditioner, suntan lotion, shaving cream and anti-perspirant. If you’ve only got a carry-on bag, make sure all of your liquids follow the 3-1- 1 rule.
• Follow 3-1- 1 liquids rule for your carry-on bag. Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces or less and all bottles must fit in a single quart-size plastic bag and placed in a bin for screening. This includes sun block and tanning sprays. Let the TSA officer know right away if you’re traveling with larger quantities of medically-necessary liquid medications or breast milk or formula for an infant.
• Documents ready: When you enter the checkpoint line have an acceptable ID and boarding pass out of your wallet and ready to hand to the TSA officer. Once you get to the screening tables, remove large electronics including laptops and the 3-1- 1 liquids bag, from carry-on baggage.
• Less accessories: Consider minimizing items that you wear to the airport such as bulky jewelry, scarves, hair accessories, large belts and other bulky items that are likely to require additional screening. Remove all items from your pockets and put them into one of your carry-on bags so you won’t lose them.
• @AskTSA: If you have questions on what is allowed through the security checkpoint, contact a TSA employee for live assistance 365 days a year via Twitter. Tweet your questions and comments to @AskTSA from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekends/holidays. Call the TSA Cares helpline toll free at 1-855- 787-2227 with any questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint 72 hours prior to traveling.

»Patch file photo of BWI Airport