American Airlines and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have launched a new program in 2025 that is changing how international travelers connect through the United States 🇺🇸. The International Remote Baggage Screening (IRBS) initiative, first tested on the Sydney to Los Angeles route, now expands to more flights and airports, making travel smoother and faster for many passengers. This move aims to reduce stress, save time, and keep security strong, all while using new technology.
What’s Happening and Why It Matters
In April 2025, American Airlines and CBP started the IRBS pilot on flights from Sydney Airport to Los Angeles International Airport. By July 2025, the program grew to include select flights from London Heathrow to Dallas–Fort Worth, where a new “gate-side immigration” process lets some connecting passengers skip the usual customs and security steps. Instead, they clear immigration right at the gate, and their checked bags are handled automatically.
This change is important because it tackles one of the biggest headaches for international travelers: long waits and complicated steps when connecting through U.S. airports. Traditionally, passengers arriving from abroad had to:
- Collect their checked bags in the customs hall
- Go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection checks
- Recheck their bags for their next flight
- Pass through TSA security again before heading to their connecting gate
With the IRBS process, passengers now:
- Clear CBP Passport Control
- Go straight to a TSA checkpoint and then to their next flight
- Skip the baggage claim and recheck steps entirely, as their bags are screened remotely and automatically transferred
For certain flights, like London Heathrow to Dallas–Fort Worth, the process is even simpler. Passengers clear immigration at the arrival gate and walk directly into the terminal, skipping both security and customs. This is currently only for those with connecting flights, not for travelers ending their journey at the arrival airport.
How the IRBS Process Works
The IRBS system uses advanced technology to screen checked baggage remotely. Instead of passengers having to pick up their bags and recheck them, the system:
- Scans and checks bags while they are still in the airport’s baggage system
- Transfers bags automatically to the next flight, without passenger involvement
- Ensures all security and customs checks are completed before the bags are loaded onto connecting flights
This process is possible thanks to a partnership between American Airlines, CBP, Sydney Airport, and technology companies Brock Solutions and BagCheck. The technology meets all current security standards, so there is no reduction in safety. Instead, the process is simply moved behind the scenes, making things easier for travelers.
Key Benefits for Passengers
The main advantage of IRBS is a much faster and less stressful connection experience. According to American Airlines and CBP, the new process can cut connection times by more than half. This means:
- Less waiting in lines for customs and security
- Lower risk of missing connecting flights due to delays in baggage claim or rechecking
- A smoother, more predictable travel experience
For families, elderly travelers, and those with tight connections, this change can make a big difference. No longer do they need to rush through crowded customs halls or worry about lost bags during the recheck process.
Official Statements and Industry Praise
Gary Tomasulo, Vice President of Global Corporate Security at American Airlines, said the airline is “committed to using technology to make travel both safer and easier for our customers.” He explained that the IRBS program is a major step forward in improving the international travel experience.
Diane J. Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner for CBP’s Office of Field Operations, called the IRBS “a significant step forward in modernizing our processes and providing a secure and seamless experience for international travelers.” She emphasized that security remains a top priority, with all existing screening requirements still in place.
Graham White, Head of Security at Sydney Airport, described the initiative as a “significant, positive shift” for passengers connecting through U.S. airports. He noted that the program helps reduce stress and confusion for travelers, especially those unfamiliar with U.S. customs procedures.
Industry analysts and travel experts have also praised the IRBS and related innovations. They point out that these changes could set a new standard for airports around the world, making international travel easier and more efficient for millions of people.
Security and Policy Implications
One of the biggest concerns with any change to airport procedures is security. Both American Airlines and CBP have made it clear that the IRBS process does not relax or weaken any security standards. Instead, it uses advanced technology to screen bags remotely, ensuring that all checks are completed before bags are loaded onto connecting flights.
The process is part of CBP’s broader Airport Modernization Plan, which aims to improve efficiency and traveler satisfaction at U.S. Federal Inspection Stations. The plan includes other initiatives, such as the One Stop Security program launched in February 2025, which also seeks to streamline international connections.
Security experts say that remote screening can actually improve safety in some cases, as it allows for more thorough checks without the pressure of long passenger lines. The use of technology also reduces the risk of human error and speeds up the process for everyone involved.
How the Changes Affect Different Groups
- Passengers: The biggest winners are international travelers with connecting flights in the United States 🇺🇸. They benefit from faster connections, less stress, and a lower chance of missing their next flight. Families, elderly travelers, and those with tight schedules will find the new process especially helpful.
- Airlines: American Airlines and other carriers gain operational efficiencies, as fewer missed connections mean fewer rebookings and less customer frustration. Improved customer satisfaction can also lead to more repeat business.
- CBP and Security Agencies: These groups achieve their goal of maintaining strong security while making the process easier for legitimate travelers. The use of technology allows them to focus resources where they are most needed.
- Airports: Facilities like Sydney Airport and Dallas–Fort Worth benefit from smoother passenger flows and less congestion in customs halls.
Background and Historical Context
The IRBS is the latest in a series of efforts by American Airlines and CBP to modernize U.S. border management. In February 2025, the One Stop Security program was launched to help streamline international connections. These changes reflect a broader trend toward using technology to improve both security and customer service at airports.
In the past, connecting through U.S. airports was often seen as a major hassle for international travelers. Long lines, confusing procedures, and the need to handle checked bags multiple times made the process stressful and unpredictable. The IRBS and related programs aim to change that reputation by making the experience faster, simpler, and more reliable.
Expansion Plans and Future Outlook
Both American Airlines and CBP have stated their intention to expand the IRBS and gate-side immigration processes to more routes and airports in the coming months. The goal is to make these improvements available to as many passengers as possible, both in the United States 🇺🇸 and at international partner airports.
The IRBS and related innovations are part of a multi-year CBP Airport Modernization Plan. This plan includes further technological integration and process improvements at U.S. ports of entry. As these changes roll out, travelers can expect even more streamlined experiences in the future.
What Travelers Need to Know
If you are planning to travel internationally with a connection in the United States 🇺🇸, here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Check Your Itinerary: Not all flights and airports are part of the IRBS or gate-side immigration programs yet. Check with American Airlines or your travel agent to see if your route is included.
- Follow Instructions: If your flight is part of the new process, you will receive clear instructions from airline staff and airport signs. Make sure to follow these directions to take full advantage of the streamlined process.
- Stay Informed: The program is expanding quickly, so keep an eye on official updates from American Airlines and CBP. You can find the latest information on the CBP official website and the American Airlines newsroom.
Solution-Oriented Elements and Practical Guidance
For travelers, the best way to benefit from these changes is to:
- Book flights with shorter connection times if your route is part of the IRBS program, as the process is much faster than before.
- Pack smart and keep important items in your carry-on, as you won’t need to handle your checked bags during your connection.
- Ask airline staff if you are unsure about the new procedures or if your flight is included in the program.
For airports and airlines, continued investment in technology and staff training will be key to making the IRBS and related programs successful. Sharing best practices and lessons learned with other airports can help speed up the adoption of these improvements worldwide.
Quotes from Stakeholders
- “We are committed to using technology to make travel both safer and easier for our customers,” said Gary Tomasulo, Vice President of Global Corporate Security at American Airlines.
- “This is a significant step forward in modernizing our processes and providing a secure and seamless experience for international travelers,” stated Diane J. Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations, CBP.
- “This initiative marks a significant, positive shift for passengers transiting through U.S. ports,” added Graham White, Head of Security at Sydney Airport.
Industry and Expert Perspectives
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the IRBS and related innovations could serve as a model for other countries looking to improve their own airport procedures. The combination of advanced technology and close cooperation between airlines, airports, and government agencies is seen as a best practice for the future of international travel.
Security experts agree that remote screening and gate-side immigration can maintain, or even improve, the security posture of U.S. ports of entry. By moving checks away from crowded customs halls and using technology to flag potential risks, authorities can focus their attention where it is most needed.
Multiple Perspectives and Broader Impact
- Passengers: Enjoy faster, less stressful connections and a lower risk of missed flights.
- Airlines: Benefit from improved operational efficiency and happier customers.
- CBP and Security Agencies: Achieve their goals of strong security and easier travel for legitimate passengers.
- Airports: See smoother passenger flows and less congestion.
Summary of Recent Changes (as of July 22, 2025)
- IRBS and gate-side immigration are active pilots, with plans for rapid expansion.
- No changes to security standards; the process is streamlined, not relaxed.
- Major reduction in connection times and improved passenger experience.
- Ongoing collaboration between American Airlines, CBP, Sydney Airport, and technology partners.
- Further expansion and technological enhancements are expected throughout 2025.
Where to Find More Information
For the latest updates, travelers and industry stakeholders should monitor official American Airlines and CBP communications channels. You can visit the CBP official website for more details on travel programs and modernization initiatives. For updates from American Airlines, check their newsroom at news.aa.com or follow @AmericanAir on social media.
Actionable Takeaways
- If you’re traveling internationally with a U.S. connection, check if your flight is part of the IRBS program.
- Expect faster, easier connections if your route is included.
- Stay updated through official channels for news on expansion and new routes.
- Airlines and airports should continue to invest in technology and staff training to support these changes.
As the IRBS and related programs expand, international travel through the United States 🇺🇸 is set to become faster, safer, and more convenient for millions of passengers. These changes mark a new era in airport operations, with technology and cooperation leading the way.
Learn Today
International Remote Baggage Screening (IRBS) → A system that remotely screens checked baggage to speed up international flight connections at US airports.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) → Federal agency responsible for securing US borders and overseeing customs and immigration processes.
Gate-side immigration → A process allowing passengers to clear immigration directly at the arrival gate without exiting the aircraft.
TSA security checkpoint → Security screening conducted by the Transportation Security Administration to protect US transportation systems.
Airport Modernization Plan → CBP’s multi-year initiative to improve security and efficiency at US airport inspection points.
This Article in a Nutshell
American Airlines and CBP’s 2025 IRBS program revolutionizes US international connections by remotely screening baggage, reducing connection times, and enhancing traveler experience with gate-side immigration pilots for faster, stress-free transit.
— By VisaVerge.com
