Ron Hunter wrote:
> Jer wrote:
>
>>>> Yes, they do. They enforce the TSA regulations AND airline policy.
>>> There must be standards, otherwise we would be directed through
>>> checkpoints according to different airlines, no?
>>>
>>
>> Actually no, the TSA mandate doesn't include being fair and balanced
>> about their responsibilities let alone any airline standard. They
>> lump everybody together by boiling everybody down to the lowest common
>> denominator, unless you fork over enough money to purchase a bypass
>> card - in which case you can practically do whatever you want,
>> including carry-on a tripod. Most card carriers are also in first
>> class, so profiling is a bit one-sided - it's only used if they
>> *don't* like how you look. If I was a terrorist, an Armani busines
>> suit would be the first thing I'd buy, then a bypass card for my...
>> 'tripod'.
>>
>
> You neglect to mention that the card is NOT BOUGHT, but a charge is made
> to do the necessary background checks AHEAD of time. To provide the
> card, and the readers at the security stations. Otherwise, YOU would
> have to pay more taxes so that those 'elitist' passengers who pay full
> fare so you can fly cheap don't have to wait in the line.
> And they are STILL not exempt from random checks at the gates.
Having brunch with a pal this morning, I remembered this post
(especially the last line) and asked a few questions. Interestingly, I
was referred to the following from...
<< Fast checks of regular fliers extended >>
Posted 9/30/2004 10:27 PM Updated 10/1/2004 8:05 AM
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/news/2004-09-30-tsa_x.htm
=============
"The program, lauded by airlines as a way of reducing airport hassles
for their best customers, allows frequent fliers to use special
checkpoint lines at participating airports. The lines not only are
shorter, but they also spare registered travelers from random secondary
screening.
To be eligible for the special treatment, about 10,000 travelers who
were invited by the airlines have submitted to background checks,
fingerprinting and iris scans. They still must pass through metal
detectors, and their carry-on bags are put through X-ray machines.
They save time because they don't have to submit to a second search by a
screener with an electronic wand or have their shoes inspected."
=============
Curiously, I called American Airlines Customer Service and inquired
about the validity of the the quoted information above - which was
confirmed. I also found it interesting that they even get to keep their
shoes on, which makes this situation even worse than I imagined.
=============
United's Jeff Green says the airline supports "anything that is going to
make it easier for our passengers while preserving security."
=============
...and nothing could be further from the truth.
--
jer email reply - I am not a 'ten'
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