American Airlines announced that it is partnering with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on a groundbreaking program to provide a more seamless and enhanced customer experience for passengers traveling internationally while maintaining the highest levels of security. This new program, along with One Stop Security which launched for the airline in February, is part of American’s ongoing effort to reimagine the international travel experience for its customers.

Through International Remote Baggage Screening (IRBS), passengers arriving in the U.S. from select international airports will no longer have to claim their checked baggage in the CBP Customs Hall and recheck it with American for their connecting flight. Instead, after clearing CBP Passport Control, passengers will proceed directly to a TSA checkpoint and then will continue to their connecting flight. Designed to reduce connection times and improve the overall travel experience, IRBS leverages advanced technology to modernize the baggage screening process so it can be done remotely. The initiative does not change any existing screening requirements.

Starting this week, American Airlines, CBP and the Sydney Airport Authority will begin piloting this new initiative on the airline’s daily flight from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Both American and CBP expect the new process to expand to other cities.

The initiative is part of CBP’s broader Airport Modernization Plan, which aims to improve security and traveler experiences through technological advancements at U.S. Federal Inspection Stations (FIS). This collaboration represents a significant milestone in CBP’s efforts to safeguard national security while facilitating efficient travel for U.S. citizens, trusted travelers and international visitors alike.