Delta introduces new airport services to speed up travel

International

Seamless baggage transfers, touchless identity checks and Uber drop-off aim to simplify the journey from curb to gate

Delta Air Lines is expanding several airport services designed to make the travel experience faster and more predictable. New solutions such as Seamless Baggage Transfer for international connections, TSA PreCheck Touchless ID and integrated Uber drop-off options are intended to reduce friction during the airport journey and give passengers more time during transfers and departures.

The initiatives focus on key moments of the travel process – from arrival at the airport to baggage handling, security checks and onward connections – with the aim of streamlining procedures and reducing unnecessary steps.

Seamless baggage transfers for international connections

Passengers traveling from Seoul Incheon Airport to Minneapolis or Detroit with a connecting Delta flight can now proceed directly to their connecting gate after clearing U.S. Customs and Border Protection and security. In most cases, there is no longer a need to collect and recheck baggage unless customs authorities require an additional inspection.

The service builds on the Seamless Baggage Transfer programme first introduced in 2025 for passengers connecting from Incheon to Atlanta. By extending the programme to additional hubs, Delta estimates that travellers can save an average of up to 25 minutes during international connections.

Later in 2026, the service will also be introduced on routes from Incheon to Seattle Tacoma International Airport operated by Delta and Korean Air, as well as flights from Incheon to Los Angeles International Airport operated by Korean Air.

Touchless identity verification and digital bag drop

Delta has also expanded the use of TSA PreCheck Touchless ID technology, which is now available at more than 60 airports, including all Delta hubs. The system allows travellers to verify their identity using biometric technology at baggage drop and security checkpoints, reducing the number of physical interactions and helping to shorten waiting times.

Passengers who wish to use the service must be SkyMiles members, enrolled in TSA PreCheck with a Known Traveler Number and in possession of a valid passport. Eligible travellers can activate Touchless ID directly through the Delta mobile app, where preferences are stored for future trips.

In addition, Delta has introduced App Bag Drop at all its hub airports. Travellers who check in via the Delta app before arriving at the airport can use dedicated baggage drop options, reducing waiting times and creating a smoother process from arrival at the terminal to the departure gate.

The mobile app also now allows holders of U.S. or Canadian permanent resident cards to scan and verify their residency documents directly within the application. Similar to passport scanning, this feature eliminates manual data entry and allows passengers to complete check-in digitally.

Partnership with Uber simplifies airport drop-off

Delta is also expanding its partnership with Uber to make airport arrivals easier. The Delta x Uber Preferred Drop-Off service allows passengers to select a designated drop-off option within the Uber app when traveling to selected airports.

The service was first introduced at New York LaGuardia Airport and later expanded to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. According to the airline, thousands of passengers now use the option each week to save time and avoid congestion at busy curbside areas.

By integrating these new services, Delta aims to simplify key stages of the airport journey while offering passengers more control and flexibility during their trip.