Wow, what a week its been for the TSA and air passengers. I guess now that the election is over, the dissatisfaction has been redirected from political targets to our nation's airport security procedures and advanced imaging machines like this one.
It all started with John Tyner, and a recording of his encounter with airport security screeners. Where it will end is hard to tell. On one side of the issue is the feeling among some airline passengers that the screening procedures have become too invasive.
On the other side are passengers and people who feel that the screening procedures are reasonable trade-offs for the potential increased security they may provide.
Either way, it was nice to hear on Mr. Tyner's tape that at least one thing worked well during his encounter--the professionalism of the TSA screening official. If you listen to the tape (or if you've gone through one of these screenings, like I have), what's nice is the TSA screener did everything right. He acted calmly, he told Mr. Tyner exactly what to expect from the screening, and he alerted supervisors when trouble arose. From my perspective, that's refreshing.
While I don't love invasive screenings, I'm in favor of advanced imaging screenings and extra security precautions. How about you?
(photo copyright TSA)
Departed fpor San Juan Feb. 24, 2011 for Flt. #1635 @2.30 pm.
Waited for woman security about 20 min., in which I was not in eye sight of my personal belonging. I was very upset as anyone could have grabbed my belongings. Finally my son came in sight and I motioned for him to get my belonging. THIS IS ACCEPTABLE TREATMENT.
My return trip from San Juan just perfect, waited a minute or two. First question the security woman asked, which are your belongings. She was well trained.