United Airlines mobile app now displays TSA wait times for select airports

United Airlines has updated its iOS and Android mobile apps with several new features, including estimated security wait times to help travelers better understand when they should arrive at the airport. The move comes as TSA checkpoints are understaffed due to the ongoing partial government shutdown.

In the Travel section of United’s mobile app, travelers can now check security wait times at the airline’s U.S. hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington, DC. Users will be able to see estimated wait times for specific lanes, including standard security and TSA PreCheck, across terminals serving United Airlines customers.

“While we appreciate the work and professionalism of our TSA employees, and most began receiving back pay earlier this week, the Department of Homeland Security shutdown continues and people are constantly seeking information about expected security wait times at airports,” United Airlines Chief Information Officer Jason Birnbaum said in a press release. “Our customers rely on our mobile app for all their travel needs, and this new feature will help them know what to expect and better plan their trips.”

The app is also rolling out updates designed for passengers on connecting flights. Travelers can receive personalized turn-by-turn directions to their next gate, including estimated walk times, real-time status updates, and tips for long layovers. It would also be a “reminder” if United Airlines were able to hold planes for passengers with close connections.

The app also provides automatic rebooking assistance. Instead of lining up to speak to an agent or manually searching for alternatives when a flight is delayed or canceled, United’s self-service tools automatically present travelers with rebooking options, baggage tracking details, and meal and hotel coupons if eligible.

The app also integrates Apple’s “Share Item Location” feature for AirTags, allowing travelers who use AirTags or other Find My network accessories to share the location of their items with United’s customer service team if their luggage is lost.

Users will also receive text updates with real-time radar maps, letting them know how bad weather in one part of the country will affect flights in another part of the country.