Got Feedback? (Commenting Disabled)
Due to the new Got Feedback? program, we have disabled commenting on this page. This page was part of a pilot program that has evolved and this page is no longer needed. You are still welcome to leave general feedback on our blog, or you can visit our Got Feedback? page and leave specific feedback with a Customer Service Manager from any one of our 450+ airports.Thanks,
EoS Blog Team
Labels: Gripes and Grins
posted by Glen at
7:30 PM
Subscribe in a reader
179 Comments:
This is a particularly good idea, as the normal way that concerns are answered is to claim they must be a bad apple and that there is nothing to be done because there is no management structure to communicate with offices. However, blogger is a poor platform for it as things are not threaded, making it easy for questions to not be answered or answers linked to questions. Also and the the comments will get filled and then what?
March 20, 2008 10:28 PM
The openness and interactivity of this blog is great.
I'd like to see you provide some way for people to suggest topics for you to address on the blog. Waiting for us to tack something on as a comment in response to one of your posts is sub-optimal. At the very least, I'd like to see a "suggestions" form to submit or address to e-mail. Better yet would be a system by which people could see and vote on others' suggestions.
One nit to pick:
Glen of the EOS Blog Team wrote:
"For now, bloggers that want to share their thoughts on other airports can tell us what they think at Gripes and Grins, Part 2"
By "bloggers" you meant "people". Bloggers are people who blog. To blog is to post blog entries -- not to read them and comment on them. You are the bloggers. Some of us may be bloggers, but when we're reading your blog and posting comments, we're not being bloggers.
March 21, 2008 12:31 AM
The map does not work.
March 21, 2008 12:34 AM
Please provide links to comment feeds. Blogger.com has this option.
Presently, if your readers want to track comments for a post in a feed reader we must construct a URI by concatenating "http://www.blogger.com/feeds/2336044328955501444/" with the post ID, with "/comments/default". This is workable but rather inconvenient.
The comment ID can be discovered by finding the "Post a comment" link from a particular post and examinging the target of that link. In it, there will be an HTTP GET parameter "postID=" that contains the number you need.
For instance, the ATOM feed for comments for this post is this URI.
March 21, 2008 1:51 AM
Under Hot Topics, please indicate that Liquids, Inconsistencies and Gripes & Grins are all now Part 2. Otherwise, people could think that they are still closed and unavailable for comment.
March 21, 2008 8:33 AM
Phil said "By "bloggers" you meant "people". Bloggers are people who blog. To blog is to post blog entries -- not to read them and comment on them. You are the bloggers. Some of us may be bloggers, but when we're reading your blog and posting comments, we're not being bloggers."
See this is what i meant in my last post. Just because the TSA blog team abbreviates a sentence does not mean they are discirminating against you or anyone else. All they are doing is saving a second or two because I'm sure they have alot of work to do(ex:reading all these blogs that have nothing positve to say and alway trying to underminded the TSA).
So give the blog team a break or should I be PC and say "Give the team made up of people that work for the Transportation Serurity Administration that created a web page on a internet system to have an open forum to dicuss topics dealing with issues at security checkpoints a break."
I think that I would rather just type the TSA Blog Team , it saves me some time.
Glen, Bob,Is that ok with you?
oh sorry I should have wrote out: is that "OKAY" with you?
KBC
March 21, 2008 9:04 AM
You should have started with some of the really notorius airports like O'hare, Newark and Atlanta.
March 21, 2008 9:10 AM
should add SEA airport on that map. seattle tacoma is a nice big hub airport
March 21, 2008 9:33 AM
I didn't know that DHS would relply to the blog about the Mac air book so swiftly. I am a current employee of TSA and feel that your response is very timely and shows to the public as well as those within the agency that we are really trying to become more transparent and in touch with the traveling public. I am very proud to say that I am working for a govrenment agency that really is trying to meet the needs of the people they serve. I also believe that this will cut down on a lot of attacks by the media and public. Thanks signed Proud TSA Officer
March 21, 2008 10:24 AM
I like it! Hopefully people responding for the different airports will be reasonable and just in their remarks and maybe include good comments about the screeners who are doing their job well and treating the travelers in a respectable manner.
As well, I hope the TSA will take the remarks seriously and let us know in general what actions they will be taking.
March 21, 2008 10:33 AM
I have a question that maybe you'd address on your blog:
What actions are y'all taking to be ready for the increase in both the number and average size of carry-on bags that need to be screened at checkpoints - the increase is sure to come as airlines are now charging for a second checked bag? Its my understanding that baggage screening is done more efficiently on checked luggage than carry-ons, so why isn't TSA encouraging the airlines to allow as much baggage checking as possible?
March 22, 2008 10:29 AM
On the subject of TSA approved locks: I use them and get really ticked off when they are CUT off by the TSA.
March 22, 2008 6:47 PM
Answer the question regarding why very small knives are prohibited...PLEASE!
March 22, 2008 9:19 PM
I wanted to comment on an incident I witnessed while clearing security at RDU last week. I was waiting for permission to go up the escalator to the security screening area in Terminal A, standing next a young female TSA employee who was controlling the waiting line of passengers. Two male TSA employees walked behind her, and as they passed, one of the male TSA agents said loudly to her "You look so SEXY with your hair like that". Then he pushed himself close to her from behind and flicked her hair off her neck and looked like he was going to nuzzle her. She looked mildly annoyed, and stepped away from him, but he was into his laughing/flirting/harassing behavior and enjoying himself. I wasn't the only passenger who noticed this interaction.
I can tell you, witnessing this episode did nothing to enhance my feeling of security while traveling. Perhaps TSA employees need to be instructed about how to maintain a PROFESSIONAL demeanor while working in a secure area.
March 23, 2008 12:14 PM
From a press release issued by the Sikh Coalition, SALDEF and United Sikhs :
Under these procedures, a Sikh's turban will not be touched during additional screening, unless the Sikh traveler permits it.
Instead, if the Transportation Security Officer (TSO) believes a Sikh's turban needs to be screened, the passenger now has three options:
1. The passenger can have his/her head covering patted down in public or in private by TSA personnel;
2. The passenger can pat down his/her own head covering in public or private, and then have his/her hands swabbed with a cotton cloth to check for chemical residue; or
3. The passenger can opt to go through a "puffer machine," if one is available at that airport.
March 23, 2008 3:13 PM
When will we see an end to the stupid policy of detaining travelers that have been through extensive interrogation( 18 times in my case)
You have my home details. my Iris details, my fingerprints, etc etc.
still I lose my bags, miss my flights, have to sit in a room for hours waiting to have the same inane questions thrown at me... why did you visit Canada in 2001!!!! The terrorists love ya'all
March 23, 2008 3:19 PM
I like it! Hopefully people responding for the different airports will be reasonable and just in their remarks and maybe include good comments about the screeners who are doing their job well and treating the travelers in a respectable manner.
I'm sorry but you can't expect praise for doing your job properly. If you go above and beyond then your earned praise. Being respectable is your job. This is part of the problem in our society is that people want praise for doing basically nothing...
March 23, 2008 10:29 PM
Anonymous said...
"Answer the question regarding why very small knives are prohibited...PLEASE!"
BECAUSE THEY ARE KNIVES!!!!!
KBC
March 24, 2008 10:34 AM
The TSA and this blog in particular demonstrate what is wrong with "security" in America. A superficial obsession with conspicuous yet ineffective demonstrations of security by a Kafkaesque bureaucracy.
More concerned with the appearance of security rather than security itself, the TSA will continue to be a laughingstock to all but the most gullible Americans.
Congratulations on offering me all the inconvenience of actual protection without the hassle of actually ensuring my safety. But at least I know that I can expect to be excoriated by my local rent-a-cop TSO if I attempt to carry a MacBook Air onto a flight.
March 24, 2008 10:56 AM
"KBC said:
BECAUSE THEY ARE KNIVES!!!!!"
Then why would the TSA permit Continental to hand out 150 metal serrated knives to its passengers on its BF 777 flights? Or permit the same knives in many of its Presidents Clubs?
Small knives are not credible threats and should be permitted.
March 24, 2008 2:29 PM
Sorry to have to sound negative... everyone I know who has ever packed anything of value into their check-in luggage has had the items ripped off. The only time my brother was required to check-in his carry-on luggage at LAX and he decided not to pull his camera out of his luggage, it was gone when he opened it up at the destination. I knew almost immediately upon handing off the luggage that it'd be ripped off.
Is there any form of checks and balance for these TSA security folks?
March 24, 2008 2:45 PM
Why is Gripes and Grins 2 closed off to additional comments already??
March 24, 2008 3:32 PM
Anonymous yelled on 3/24/2008 at 10:34 AM "BECAUSE THEY ARE KNIVES !!!!! That's not an answer. The point of security is to keep WEAPONS off of airplanes. A 1 1/2" knife is simply not a weapon. 4" sharp pointed scissors may be. Metal knitting needles may be. The crash axe in the cockpit may be. A broken wine bottle may be. A portable oxygen bottle may be. A thin nylon cord or ladies' stocking used as a garrote may be. A Cross ball point pen may be. A sharpened credit card may be.A hard-sided briefcase may be. The trained hands and feet of a martial artist may be. A camera tripod may be.A glass sliver may be. A walking cane may be. But a 1 1/2" folding pocket knife is just not. Every airplane is full of things that MAY be dangerous to one degree or another, but that fall short of being called weapons. To prohibit something because it has the same name as a REAL weapon is absurd and illustrates just how ridiculous some of the TSA policies and procedures really are and why some rules that may be actually justified are perceived to be just more TSA nonsense. We in the travelling public are not stupid, but we sure can recognize it when we see it. Justify the small knife ban or modify it...maybe call them "toothpicks," or "thread cutters" or something so you won't have to deal with (shudder) "knives".
March 24, 2008 8:26 PM
" everyone I know who has ever packed anything of value into their check-in luggage has had the items ripped off"
Everyone I know has never had anything every ripped off. Should I blame the TSA for that?
March 24, 2008 10:42 PM
" When will we see an end to the stupid policy of detaining travelers that have been through extensive interrogation( 18 times in my case)
You have my home details. my Iris details, my fingerprints, etc etc."
WHAT airport have you been in? I've never had this done by anyone. More details, please...
March 24, 2008 10:44 PM
Interesting that Grips and Grins 2 had such a short lifespan. As soon as it was created, I put together my two cents on experiences at Orlando, Flint, Atlanta and Pensacola. Unfortunately, they were mostly gripes, and never appeared on the blog.
Although the post was lengthy, the level of detail showed specifically where (1) the TSO's could have handled simple, routine situations better and (2) the screening experience could be made less unpleasant.
Questions for the moderators:
-- Do you delete posts based on length?
-- If you delete a post due to length that otherwise complies with posting guidelines, is its content still used in the TSA's review of the traveler's opinions as expressed on this blog?
Thanks...
March 25, 2008 8:13 AM
anonymous wrote:
I wanted to comment on an incident I witnessed while clearing security at RDU last week. I was waiting for permission to go up the escalator to the security screening area in Terminal A, standing next a young female TSA employee who was controlling the waiting line of passengers...
This is in line with my experience every single time I've passed through the RDU terminal A security checkpoint since TSA took it over. The line (note the use of the singular) is usually ridiculously long (20-30 minutes just to get up the escalator, to another line), the "escalator attendant" is oblivious to his/her (most often, her) surroundings and paying no attention to the passengers waiting at the foot of the escalator. The TSO's are uniformly brusque, oft-times rude and/or vaguely hostile and often more interested in conversing/flirting with each other than paying any mind to passengers. (And there seems to be a definitive pattern to which passengers get more scrutiny during the screening.)
---
KBC wrote:
BECAUSE THEY ARE KNIVES!!!!!
KBC, I'd hate to tell you, but a cheapo Bic Stic ballpoint is a significantly more dangerous item than pen knives or nail clippers with blades shorter than 2 inches.
There's about 10 ways to almost instantly kill or incapacitate someone with an unmodified ballpoint. A short pen knife might hurt someone, but there's almost nowhere on the human body that it can be used to immediately incapacitate/kill (other than the throat).
March 25, 2008 10:29 AM
As a former government employee, I know that "mirth" is not in any manual, and I appreciate that you at the TSA have a serious job to do, but please, can there be a little more emphasis on not making flying an excruciating experience?
Just a little, perhaps?
There is a stand-up comic doing a bit that goes, "Don't people know that the whole point of airport security is to make you not want to fly?!?!"
There's a kernel of truth in that.
I frequently travel from the PHL/MDT/BWI triangle to the Huntsville, Alabama area, and the hassle of flying in these days leaves me opting to drive the 825 miles.
Flying is just too much bother. Can something be done, long term, to mitigate that?
March 26, 2008 5:31 PM
My exhusband tried to get a job as an airport security screener...then he found out how much they pay... $8.00 an hour...you get what you pay for!
I just flew through Fargo, ND and was detained for excessive makeup (I'm a makeup artist), a laptop and a block of cheese! They ran a cloth across my cheese! I had to give away new facial cleanser, hand sanitizer, concealer, etc. This stuff went through my airport with no problem...I certainly had nothing that would blow up a plane. I was treated like a highjacker...had a woman stick her hand up my blouse and into my bra...all in full view of the public. They spoke to me like I was a criminal, it was so embarrassing. The guy kept telling me to hurry up and I was the only one around! Have any of you been to the Fargo Airport? It's tiny! I just had 2 foot operations and this guy is telling me to hurry up?
I actually had people come up to me when I was done being detained and searched! They told me how sorry they felt for me! They were as horrified as I was! Come on!
What's the purpose of being mean and rude to the public? Can't you put cameras on these people and monitor them? It's out of control!
March 26, 2008 9:38 PM
A recent news article stated that if you've been harassed at an airport security checkpoint, "you've just been TSA'd".
March 27, 2008 3:50 PM
TSA in Action (again)
LOS ANGELES (CBS) ― A woman was forced by the Transportation Security Administration to remove her nipple rings before she was allowed to board a flight, a local attorney said on Thursday.
"The woman was given a pair of pliers in order to remove the rings in her nipples," said Los Angeles attorney Gloria Allred. "The rings had been in her nipples for many years."
Good job TSA, those rings surely could have been a dangerous weapon threatening the safe counduct of the flight!
Can't TSA learn anything?
March 27, 2008 4:32 PM
Can't TSA learn anything?
At least it was nipple rings and not something in the nether region.
I hope they had her do this in private and not out in public. The original meaning of stupid is incapable of learning. I guess in this case TSA is stupid.
Kippie, do you have any comments on your workers doing this? How about the woman who had one of your workers up inside of the woman's bra?
Kip, since you're in charge of the operation, we, the American taxpayers, would like a full accounting for your inability to control your screeners.
We would like a full accounting for the liquids policy that has some items being confiscated not by wolume, but instead by weight.
We would like a full accounting for your workers inability to properly resecure luggage after they've inspected it.
We would like a full accounting for the ongoing abuse visited upon the eldery, infirm, and children in what seems to be an effort by your organization to get those groups to stop flying.
We want a full accounting and hiding behind SSI only confirms the belief that we have that TSA is running out of control and responsible to no one.
March 27, 2008 7:28 PM
Anonymous said...
Can't TSA learn anything?
At least it was nipple rings and not something in the nether region.
I hope they had her do this in private and not out in public. The original meaning of stupid is incapable of learning. I guess in this case TSA is stupid.
I read this story a couple of days ago, the article I read was written by the woman with the nipple rings.
According to her the metal detector went off. She told them she had the nipple rings and they told her she has to remove them so they can wand her. She throws a fuss about “they can't come out without the pliers”. So they get her pliers and let her take them out in private.
She said in the article she wrote that she left her belly ring in. The TSO told her she did not have to remove that one because they could SEE it.
Think about it for a second, what choice did the TSO have?
Something on this person made the metal detector beep. The TSO has to verify that what made the metal detector beep was something harmless.
The TSO could do like they did and make her remove them so they could wand her again.
Or
The TSO could have frisked her nipples.
OR
The TSO could have made her lift her shirt to expose her nipples.
If the TSO had done either of the last two the story would have been "A perverted TSO tweaked my nipples!" or "A perverted TSO made me flash them some boob in order to fly!"
Come on if you want to harp about the TSA & TSOs at least pick something they did wrong, this is not it.
BTW I am in agreement with the rest of your post.
March 27, 2008 9:07 PM
re...At least it was nipple rings and not something in the nether region.
Didn't some of the TSA's responding here say that once the item causing the alarm had been determined and the item was not restricted then no futher action was needed?
So as disgusting as it seems to have to do, shouldn't the lady have been able to DISPLAY her rings and then be excused from additional poor treatment at the hands of our Stazi trained screeners? Why was she forced to remove the rings?
TSA seems to want to ring their own bell all the time, so I'm waiting for their response on how good of a job they did in this instance!
March 27, 2008 9:08 PM
The woman passed initial screening. They detected the nipple rings when they hand wanded her. FYI if you hand wand jeans, the rivets in the jeans will set off the hand wand and you will get the 'treatment' due just to those rivets. I've had them attempt to reach into the front of my pants and said "hold on that won't be necessary and unfastened and unzipped the pants. That nearly got me arrested. I was wearing underwear at the time.
We now know that TSA views 100% of the traveling public as potential terrorists and instead of reacting to real threats waste time and resources on all travelers.
March 27, 2008 9:37 PM
re...At least it was nipple rings and not something in the nether region.
For the TSA types here, did you ever want to just hang your head down, give a few oh no shakes and just walk away from the lunacy?
How can you face the public each day when you have issues like this that every traveler will have heard about by the next day?
I don't much care for you guys but I still feel sorry for you! Your performance is a reflection of your leaders, and I use that word loosely!
March 27, 2008 9:57 PM
Kippie,
All I have to say is that Gloria Allred is about to become your worst nightmare. You've crossed the line this time.
I hope you have a gig at Fox News Channel lined up.
March 27, 2008 10:11 PM
Anonymous said: "From a press release issued by the Sikh Coalition, SALDEF and United Sikhs: Under these procedures, a Sikh's turban will not be touched during additional screening, unless the Sikh traveler permits it. Instead, if the Transportation Security Officer (TSO) believes a Sikh's turban needs to be screened, the passenger now has three options:
1. The passenger can have his/her head covering patted down in public or in private by TSA personnel;
2. The passenger can pat down his/her own head covering in public or private, and then have his/her hands swabbed with a cotton cloth to check for chemical residue; or
3. The passenger can opt to go through a "puffer machine," if one is available at that airport."
Maybe Option #2 should also be made available to people with piercings in private areas.
March 27, 2008 11:31 PM
Any plans to do a post on the nipple issue? I'd like to know before I next fly.
Thanks!
March 28, 2008 2:16 AM
Would anyone from TSA like to comment on how many nipple rings constitute an effective weapon?
I know that calculations such as critical mass and such are probably SSI but maybe just a hint could be given. I guess if you had enough of them you could fashion a chain of sorts and chain up the flight crew.
How about some insight into your next major target?
March 28, 2008 9:52 AM
"Answer the question regarding why very small knives are prohibited...PLEASE!"
The difficulty in establishing any sort of limiting regulation is in setting the limits. How small is too small? What I think of as small and what someone else thinks is small could too easily be different things. In order to be fair and avoid confusion it is necessary to simply prohibit all knives.
March 28, 2008 10:26 AM
anonymous said on March 26th:
"They ran a cloth across my cheese!"
That is an incorrect use of TSA procedures. That screener was wrong.
"...had a woman stick her hand up my blouse and into my bra...all in full view of the public."
That is an incorrect use of TSA procedures. That screener was wrong.
Thank you for identifying exactly which airport had the problem. May I suggest that you attempt to contact the TSA office there and address the issue directly to them.
March 28, 2008 10:34 AM
Joe Screener said on 3/28/2008 at 10:26 AM that "In order to be fair and avoid confusion it is necessary to simply prohibit all knives." That is a very disappointing answer on several levels. First; Joe is a screener, not a TSA spokesperson. We already know that TSA does not allow screeners any discretion at all-probably with good reason. Second; Setting limits is not difficult at all, providing there is a will to do it. We already are allowed 4" sharp-pointed scissors, 7" screwdrivers and 3.4oz liquid containers in a 1qt baggie, plus a host of completely unregulated sharps, such as knitting needles, ball point pens,corkscrews,nail files and cuticle cutters. Someone in authority set those limits, and someone in authority is capable of setting reasonable limits on knife size and type-if there were only the will to do so. Judging from the many comments on the subject, a fairly significant number of folks on this blog feel needlessly inconvenienced by the mindless and inexplicable prohibition on small keychain size knives. Why can't TSA, not Joe Screener who is not trusted by his agency to exercize discretion,address this issue and either explain the rule or modify it? The expressed pupose behind this blog is to facilitate communication between TSA and the travelling public. Continually ignoring an often expressed question does not foster communication, and exposes TSA to the valid charge that it is an unreasonably secretive bullying agency that makes up and enforces arbitrary and baseless rules that serve no valid security purpose and that seem to be designed only to harass and intimidate the flying public. C'mon, Kip. Prove me wrong!
March 28, 2008 1:49 PM
What a sorry state we have when the IRS is liked and appreciated more than the TSA.
I have to give the TSA credit though. Thanks to them, I no longer fly. It's too much of a hassle!
March 28, 2008 2:35 PM
Joe Screener said...
and TSO NY said, "without a presciption it doesn't go."
Joe are you now the official spokesperson for TSA?
Care to comment on the new nipple ring removal policy?
To TSA Management, if your looking to hire a few "nipple inspectors" I think I would qualify. I am also versatile and can identify other genitalia if needed. Give me a call!
March 28, 2008 3:01 PM
The ability of a TSO to make up rules on the spot is an important part of airport security. Think of it as the "21st layer".
March 28, 2008 3:18 PM
I have just watched a video on Fox News about the TSA and passengers with nipple rings. Apparently there will a policy change to not force the passenger to remove the nipple ring but now allow a "visual inspection" to pass security checks.
My question is what will you do with the hundreds of women (and men) with other genital piercings? Visually inspect those too? That's a bit too far with the invasion of privacy!
http://www.foxnews.com/video2/video08.html?videoId=88247202-c2ed-4543-a752-dd8b099f0f5d&sMPlaylistID=
March 28, 2008 10:50 PM
Working with the public never changes. First of all they forget so easy about what has happen to us. They only want to be treated like little babies don't hurt my feelings, your invading my rights. Well I'll let you in on something, we do to little for security we should be more harder on the public like so many other contries are. We have had it to easy here and one day we may pay a bigger price. Terrorist come in many forms if the public can pick them out for the TSO workers fine let us know then we won't have to trouble you.
March 29, 2008 8:32 AM
I'm not going to write my my real comment here because the 'TSA' doesn't have the guts to post it. I'm a 55-year old businessman. Wife, two kids, house, dog. I just came back from a long trip to China. The 'TSA' and most of the other 'Departments' of 'our' government (really feel like it belongs to you ?) are no different from what I saw in China, but of course I knew that before I went. And I'm not kidding. This business about the woman with the nipple ring sickens me. It sickens me to think of the leering perverts in the 'TSA' suits at the airport. Pre-invasion, Bush told us about the 'rape rooms' in Iraq. Well, there are 'rape rooms' at every U.S. airport. For reference, read the earlier comment by the 'TSA' guy who volunteered to inspect genital piercings ('heh, heh'). Somehow, lost in all of this is the fact that a U.S. Citizen who had a tiny piece of metal embedded in her skin was strip-searched and humiliated at the airport rape room in Lubbock. Was there some risk that she was going to take down an aircraft with a nipple ring ? No. But this is what dictatorships do, isn't it ? They start by putting the least capable in the population into positions of 'authority'. The idea is to intimidate and harass. Ask yourself : The leering 'TSA' 'staff' ; they're 'authorities' on what ? Physics ? Medicine ?
The Chinese 'government'. 'Our' 'government'. What's the difference ? The Chinese have their own TSA. And from what I could tell, it operates in a much more professional manner than 'our' 'TSA'. I felt far safer on Chinese aircraft than I ever have here. The Chinese TSA is much more likely to protect plane passengers against hijackers. They spend their time looking for weapons and bombs, not looking for the next opportunity to inspect someone's genitalia. ('heh, heh'). That's the difference. The only difference.
March 29, 2008 9:52 AM
The way you handled the nipple ring situation was terrible!!! It sound's like, to me, you were trying to make an example out of this lady. There are more and more people getting body piercing, so you might as well accept it. What are they going to do.... blow up a plane with a nipple ring?
March 29, 2008 9:54 AM
"Working with the public never changes. First of all they forget so easy about what has happen to us. They only want to be treated like little babies don't hurt my feelings, your invading my rights. Well I'll let you in on something, we do to little for security we should be more harder on the public like so many other contries are. We have had it to easy here and one day we may pay a bigger price. Terrorist come in many forms if the public can pick them out for the TSO workers fine let us know then we won't have to trouble you."
And how many terrorists will you catch if you get your way, and get to be harder on the public?
Read the next post after yours:
"The Chinese have their own TSA. And from what I could tell, it operates in a much more professional manner than 'our' 'TSA'. I felt far safer on Chinese aircraft than I ever have here. The Chinese TSA is much more likely to protect plane passengers against hijackers. They spend their time looking for weapons and bombs, not looking for the next opportunity to inspect someone's genitalia."
It is a matter of doing the job right, professional behavior, not stampeding over people in the hope that this will somehow make them safer.
March 29, 2008 11:39 AM
Anonymous said...
I'm not going to write my my real comment here because the 'TSA' doesn't have the guts to post it. I'm a 55-year old businessman. Wife, two kids, house, dog. I just came back from a long trip to China. The 'TSA' and most of the other 'Departments' of 'our' government (really feel like it belongs to you ?) are no different from what I saw in China, but of course I knew that before I went. And I'm not kidding. This business about the woman with the nipple ring sickens me. It sickens me to think of the leering perverts in the 'TSA' suits at the airport. Pre-invasion, Bush told us about the 'rape rooms' in Iraq. Well, there are 'rape rooms' at every U.S. airport. For reference, read the earlier comment by the 'TSA' guy who volunteered to inspect genital piercings ('heh, heh'). Somehow, lost in all of this is the fact that a U.S. Citizen who had a tiny piece of metal embedded in her skin was strip-searched and humiliated at the airport rape room in Lubbock. Was there some risk that she was going to take down an aircraft with a nipple ring ? No. But this is what dictatorships do, isn't it ? They start by putting the least capable in the population into positions of 'authority'. The idea is to intimidate and harass. Ask yourself : The leering 'TSA' 'staff' ; they're 'authorities' on what ? Physics ? Medicine ?
The Chinese 'government'. 'Our' 'government'. What's the difference ? The Chinese have their own TSA. And from what I could tell, it operates in a much more professional manner than 'our' 'TSA'. I felt far safer on Chinese aircraft than I ever have here. The Chinese TSA is much more likely to protect plane passengers against hijackers. They spend their time looking for weapons and bombs, not looking for the next opportunity to inspect someone's genitalia. ('heh, heh'). That's the difference. The only difference.
You know what sickens me? People like you that post crap without reading or doing the smallest thing to familiarize themselves with the situation.
First, the TSO that volunteered to inspect genitals was not a TSO, it was someone making a joke.
Secondly, the woman in Lubbock was not stripped, fondled, ogled or raped.
Third, in a dictatorship you don't have a Gloria Allnoise to raise a stink about what the Govt. may have done.
March 29, 2008 3:39 PM
The problem with the feedback approach is, even for a regular traveler and writer like myself, that there is a perception that feedback to TSA or DHS makes no difference.
I don't want a "thanks for your comments, bye!", I want real-world common-sense change and briskly. There should never again be a years-long pointless ban on nail files, rescinded quietly despite that anybody smart could have told you on day one that it was a distraction and hassle with no security value.
Until TSA decides it actually cares to be agile and responsive, it actually cares to listen to the citizens it serves (and who are its ultimate employers), any "feedback" mechanism is just a clever exercise in marketing.
March 30, 2008 12:42 AM
Would anyone from TSA like to comment on how many nipple rings constitute an effective weapon?
You'll put your eye out with that thing.
March 30, 2008 12:49 AM
I used to fly (pre-9/11), now considering all the bad press(from the sounds of it, much deserved) WHY should I fly? I'm retired & have the time to drive. If I were to buy my next antique car on e-bay, flying 1 way with little baggage sounds like I'd get flagged or something! I haven't flown since 9/11, for all I know I might be on your "no-fly" list, have you guys fixed that yet? I'm not unreasonable, but if I'm on it I should be able to fix it, shouldn't I? I wonder how many people are like me, haven't flown and as long as we keep hearing "horror stories" why should we?
March 30, 2008 5:16 AM
I recently travelled to Paris - and took a carry on with no liquids in it. On our way back, we brought back perfume and wine, which at this point we checked it in as luggage. We also decided to buy some additional perfume at the airport in Paris (yes, we love perfumes!). As we arrived in NYC, we were told that we would need to check our perfumes (bught at the airport) for our flight to Fort Myers - because we were doing customs there.
Now, I am not new to travelling. I have been all over the world, and the one place that always stick to my mind is TelAviv. Do you want to know what security is? Well, let me tell you - they really check you before getting in on a plane there. I was stripped search - just like everybody else was - every little item in my backpack was checked and open, but once I was allowed to board the plane, I did not have to worry about moving my stuff from my carry on to my luggage just because we were changing. One last note, my sister put in her gel in her luggage, and that got thrown away - no explanation inside her luggage about it. Could it be that TSA just forgot to put it back in? I have noticed that that happens, but have never made a stink of it because it has not being worth a lot of money.
The reason I am posting this blog: Having to check the perfume, cost us our flight - since the origina flight was already delayed. We had to pay for a hotel that night, fly into Fort Lauderdale instead of Fort Myers, and then rent a car to get home. Needless to say, nor the airlines, nor TSA wanted to hear about our problem.
I realize that there is a need for increased security, but there should be a bit more logic into it - if the items have already been checked (wine and perfumes), they are closely sealed (wines and perfumes), I have receipts as a proof of purchase (wines and perfumes), then why should I need to check it in as luggage? Trust me, I do not want the plane to go up in flames, but some of the things that I see the TSA do are really unlogical - and as I saw on a previous posting - they are not consistent.
Thank you.
March 30, 2008 7:49 AM
This blog is typical of the (deliberately?) misguided approach to addressing real issues that lead to the creation of DHS and TSA in the first place. Blogs are intended for one-way communication. As such, this is just another outlet for government propaganda, not a useful mechanism for garnering feedback or engaging in a public dialog.
March 30, 2008 9:07 AM
I have an idea. Why doesn't the government abolish the TSA in its entirety? They have failed numerous security tests, continue to fail security tests, and haven't accomplished a fraction of their own objectives since their inception. Go back to private security and become an oversight agency capable of holding the security firms accountable. No one is holding the TSA accountable for its actions (or inactions).
And, instead of asking the not so very security savvy public about the job you do, how about asking some real security professionals how you're doing? I think you'll find quiet a different perspective.
You were created hastily and your executive ranks were filled with ex-FAA managers who couldn't make it in the FAA. You put retired street cops in charge of multiple airports, retired air force tech sergeants with a private pilot license in charge of multiple airports, and eight dollar an hour private screeners became your FSD's and Deputy FSD's. And now the taxpaying public has to endure your inept security procedures, your invasions of privacy, and your lunacy of large screening lines, which you blame on the public not being prepared. When the time comes, and I hope it comes soon, Congress will awaken to your security game show and put a stop to this money-wasting monster. Can you imagine the gains we would make in the fight against terrorism if we would spend the money on intelligence instead of this game show? We would make incredible strides!
I AM TOPSEC!
March 30, 2008 10:24 AM
I am pleased to run across this blog.
What I am about to write should have been sent awhile ago, but time has passed and here we go.
On January 5th, I flew out of PHL--Philadelphia--and had an unfortunate situation with the TSA. My son was almost 1 and this was my 2nd flying experience with him--meaning I am well aware of the rules. With me, I had 4 bottles with water in them, powdered formula, and baby food. Any other airport--PHL included--had no problem with me and my bottles filled with H2O. (my child was with me and it was pretty obvious what they were for). I was told to make the formula or toss the water out by two very rude TSA employees--I could not make the formula at that moment....it would expire within the hour. Another employee proceeded to raise their voice at me and my son in front of the entire line. Up until that point, all airports--including PHL--had no problem with me and my bottles/formula, so why would I do it any other way? Also, for moms traveling alone, we need to simplify everything as much as possible. After being sent out of line, dumping my bottles, going through the line yet again, and then buying 2 bottles of H2O at $4 a pop, I can say with great certainty, I will NEVER fly through PHL again.
Respect, that is what everyone needs. I understand all of the threats and news and things that TSA deals with on a daily basis, but moms with a baby??!!?? That is NOT your concern. I am writing this not to help myself--but a mom in the future.
March 30, 2008 10:25 AM
To TSA: It's a difficult job no matter how you do it and personally my hat is off to you for doing a tuff job. I was involved with the initial setup of screening around the country and understand the issues. Yes I've had my share of long waits and almost missed flights. But in the end I'd rather fly safe.
So I proudly say to you "keep up the good work."
Richard A. Frederick
March 30, 2008 3:46 PM
The story about the woman with the nipple piercings makes me want to scream! "We expect all contributors to be respectful." I expect an agency that is charged with taking care of people to be respectful. Not only does the TSA disregard basic human rights, but their attempt at keeping us secure is ridiculous. We are no more secure now than we were before 9/11.
March 30, 2008 3:54 PM
Not so much a gripe but, a concern. I finally have a place to comment about a TSA person where we flew from.
Traveling with pets is an issue, especially CATS that is a concern of mine. My husband and I moved about 6 months ago (well before this site was created)
Anyway, we had no problem taking our girls out of their kennels and having the kennels go through the screening machine, (we had no issue with walking through the metal detectors with the cats) I (we) do have a gripe with the agent who insisted my husband put his cat on the floor so the agent could "wand" him.
If not for another agent who told the other my husband could not put the cat down and to wand him with the cat in his arms we may have lost our cat, possibly for good.
Cats do not behave the same as dogs and are more likely to "bolt" in situations that airports may present.
Again if not for the kindness of the other agent I shutter to think what could have happened.
We flew out of ALB.
March 30, 2008 4:32 PM
Was at Newark mid March, got "randomly" chosen to be "inspected". Now I have no problem with the process...and understand the reasoning for the most part behind the intrusivness, however when the machine designed to detect the presence of potential bomb making chemicals failed and I started getting nervous. As I sat in the designated seat, watching as the TSA personnel chatted amongst themselves, I began to worry. This wasnt serious to them. They swiped my bag again, and then threw it on the little metal table. Not one TSA agent said a word to me. So I continued to sit in the chair. Now I am really worried because I knew that my flight was going to begin boarding, and I had just returned from an oversea's trip and couldnt miss my connections AGAIN. Finally, a male TSA looked at me and said..."well you can take your bag". Wow. Thank you so very much. I am not sure what worried me more...the fact that the machine wasnt functioning properly or the fact that I was treated as though I was suppose to know it was ok to take the bag...oh well...I got home safe and sound so I guess its all moot.
March 30, 2008 9:22 PM
My Biggestes problem with the TSA is NOT operating 24hours especially at the larger airports.
I always get to the airport at least 2 hours before my flight which normally is te first flight out, but have to wait in a non secure area of the airport for over an hour and half, leaving less then 15 minutes to get to my flight.
I did e-mail the TSA and was told that at the other end of the airport the security was open.
Why should I have to walk to the opposit end of the airport go through security then walk all te way back.
Why cannot they not just open the gates. Not opening the gates causes a huge bottle neck. People will trickle in, and if they have to wait until the gate is open, then it takes longer to get everyone through, but keeping the gates open 24 hours ends the bottle neck.
The thing that really angered me is that an our before the gates were to be opened the TSA had a meeting right there in front of the gates, and some of the comments from the TSA were innapropiate. They were laughing at all who were waiting at the gate to get through. Meetings should NOT happen at the security gates. After that I have decided to drive on my vacation. I will only fly if absolutly necessary.
March 30, 2008 10:28 PM
Posting here may be like talking to the foxes about the problem of the disappearing chickens.
TSA as it's been implemented is surely one of the most severe of the problems with our economy. Has anyone considered the value of lost work time and vacation time?
TSA is clearly one of the greatest assaults on our freedom in all of history. TSA operations are identical to those of totalitarian governments.
Has anyone compared the excess cost of ineffective and hopeless TSA procedures in real tax dollars and lost business work hours and lost leisure hours (Yes, leisure hours have a value.) to the maximum probable benefit the TSA is providing? The cost is huge while the demonstrable benefit is close to nothing.
When you add the hours of valuable life lost in ineffective TSA lines and early check in requirements, the aggregate life lost exceeds the hours lost to death and injury in most wars ever fought on this planet.
We are paying a severe price only because we all "bleed" some. However the total "blood" lost exceeds that lsot in most wars.
This should not be tolerated by free people, even those who work for TSA.
Furthermore, if the TSA were a necessary operation, it would still not give TSA employees the right to treat other citizens in this inhuman way. I have seen TSA people intentionally handle baggage roughly and then bully the travelers who objected. I see TSA people often in personal conversations while they ignore or insult the passengers who will miss their flights because the TSA personnel want to gossip instead of work.
WHAT HAPPENED TO AMERICA? We feared terrorists would take our lives. Our own government took our freedom and dignity.
It's time to tell your bosses and congressional representatives to turn this around.
March 30, 2008 10:29 PM
Suggestion:
I fly one to four times a week. Isn't there some way to give us frequent flyers the same abilites as airport employees? I'd gladly go through a very intesive background check and be subjuct to random checks like they are. I've seen the frequent flyer program at the Orlando airport, but it's the only airport I fly into with the program. Why can't something be workout out?
March 31, 2008 1:28 AM
I understand that TSA again is changing its uniforms. Why couln't that money be utilized for better Xray equipment that could detect the hard to see explosives? The biggest fear when Federal screeners were created was that they would look better and be more polite but the ability to detect something would not improve. As far as I can determine this is still a fair assumtion. The push as far as I can see, is to get these people through the line. I have witnessed screeners fail tests
and I felt really bad for them because they appeared to be diligent and professional. It was also unsettling. A choice will have to be made and it starts with your management, security or speed, I hope that you choose wisely and let the public grow up and realize that making our airports safe will require everyone's patience.
March 31, 2008 11:03 AM
I traveled this weekend to Seattle from Oakland, CA. My toothpaste was taken away from me by a TSA agent, because it did not meet the 3-1-1 requirements. It was not a liquid or a gel. I am very unhappy with your process. I feel very dis-empowered every time I have to deal with the TSA and I am never happy with my experience. I did not dare protest, because then I would have been singled out. I will of course be writing my congress person on this matter.
March 31, 2008 4:31 PM
Last year I had to take several trips by by air. Airports today have truly become the unhappiest places in the United States, and TSA employees certainly contribute to that, along with the airline employees. TSA employees are rude, mean, powerhungry and most umpleasant and unhappy people.
In the past I never had to check bags as I travel light, but now nearly every thing that one needs to maintain one's self is no longer legal to take on the plane.
The last five trips I have taken, my TSA approved locks were broken off, my bags completely emptied and everthing just stuffed back any old way, and several items missing. The TSA employees blane the airline employees and the airline employees blane the TSA employees, as a travelier I am just helpless agnist this invasion of and theft of my property.
This is just another example of losing more rights, privalages and
freedoms has progressed over the years in the name of National Security. It is easy to see how in a very short time the TSA will be very much like the German SS was.
I am most saddened by what is happeing to us in our own country
March 31, 2008 10:59 PM
In the years before I never had to worry about my camera gear or film to come up missing or ruined. Many years ago, I had film as well as my trusty old Minox camera, remember those! With the TSA forget about that. I am almost sure the goon squad will either take my camera, film or both! for those who don't know the Minox is a classic spy camera. But it isn't a weapon of any sort. I had that camera for many years. I had bought it in Atlanta in 1985.I in some ways like it better than a modern camera.
April 1, 2008 6:10 PM
Ah, shoes! I recall, during the days of WW2, the X-ray machines at Sears. Whenever new shoes were checked for proper fit. The sales person and the customer could clearly see, in fine detail, the position of the foot as well as the shoe; this included the outline of the sewing and nails in the heel section. If this application could be used; go for it! Can't hide from this bad boys!
And besides, no more nasty odor from ....
Tom from Detroit City
April 1, 2008 9:02 PM
Ah, shoes! I recall, during the days of WW2, the X-ray machines at Sears. Whenever new shoes were checked for proper fit. The sales person and the customer could clearly see, in fine detail, the position of the foot as well as the shoe; this included the outline of the sewing and nails in the heel section. If this application could be used; go for it! Can't hide from this bad boys!
And besides, no more nasty odor from ....
Ever wonder where those x-ray machines went? They yanked them because the dosage was too high and people who used them every day got sick (radiation poisoning).
April 1, 2008 10:31 PM
TSA is a good idea that needs alot of training and work. Most of the people working for TSA in the airports have no idea what they are doing. This comes from the lack of training and the poor quality of people. The personnel applying for jobs as screener with TSA need to be of higher quality and need to be trained at the same level as a police officer. I know from my own experience that they are not doing a good job, just doing a job to get paid. And this is a shame! I have passed thru security several times going international and no one on this side of the water or the other side caught sometime wrong with my passport. That shows that no one reads the documents showed to them. This makes me believe that the training is poor. I am a retired soldier and Dept of Army civilian and have training in security, so this is not new to me. From the top down in the TSA needs to be revamped and trained ASAP. Do not just put people there because we need them to do a job, but train them for the job.
April 3, 2008 11:54 AM
What REALLY annoys me about the screening process at ANY airport is the fact that when I get up to where the trays are, I have to wait until I'm almost at the entrance to the x-ray to get to bowls! Sometimes I have a lot of change, keys, and other stuff in my pockets and it would be EXTREMELY helpful if they put those bowls back to where they have the trays. Otherwise, when I finally get up to where I can reach the bowls, I have to dig out my change and etc. and hold up the line behind me.
You may think: "why not get that stuff out while you're walking through the line?". My answer to that is that you're working on pushing your items through the x-ray so you really don't have much time to do that.
April 3, 2008 12:53 PM
I travel by air several times a year. I have two titanium knee replacements. With whole body imaging, why is it necessary to be pulled aside, wait for 'female assist' and be patted down every time I pass through security in every airport. If the whole body imaging identifies the knees replaced and does not identify any other metal, being scanned and patted down seems bothersome and redundant and not really contributing to the safety of the flying public.
April 3, 2008 3:14 PM
I would like to see a top level justification for the TSA. I fly 100,000+ miles a year.
Specifically the TSA does not seem to be able to catch more than 25% of weapons that people try to smuggle on board. This means 75% or more gets through. http://www.airportsecurityblog.com/?p=38
However, to my knowledge there have not been any hyjackings in the US after 9/11. So maybe the treat is a complete FABRICATION and the TSA is a solution for a non-problem.
Many industry insiders think the TSA is a joke. Including some top level execs at airlines I know. At every foreign airport they appologize for "american" security standards. Even the screeners there think we are nuts.
However, the joke is on us as americans. The goodwill we have abroad for our country is being wasted. My relatives don't want to visit anymore. They have the impression we live in a police state run by clowns.
There were 500 people in line in Atlanta comming of an international flight yesterday 4/2 at 4PM. All these people had already been screend multiple times abroad. One screener was studying whether a gel container was 3 or 3.3 fluid ounce. She wasn't sure so she called a supervisor.
Really the TSA needs to justify its existence or dissolve itself.
April 3, 2008 4:42 PM
If scissors 4" long are allowed why not jack knives of the same length? As an Alaskan, I never go anywhere without a knife (except on a plane, of course). I need it to cut cheese or bread on the road, open a can of tuna, etc.
I would love to see this restriction lifted.
Thank you
April 6, 2008 9:48 PM
Apparently airlines & TSA have different security procedures when it comes to medical conditions requiring liquids to be carried on. We called the airlines ahead of time to ask if dialysis solution was allowed on the plane. We were informed that all we needed was a doctor's note be allowed to carry on the dialysis solution for her kidney dialysis which is mandatory to perform every 4 hours; and for long plane trips it is required. We were stopped at security check point and were not allowed to bring the solution on through the gate. We were at a predicament because it was a risk for my mother to fly without having her dialysis solution on hand. Apparently because the airlines says it is okay does not mean TSA will allow it. Be sure to contact all depts if you need special exemptions for a medical conditions, you don't know who might stop you.
April 7, 2008 6:32 PM
A few things:
Knives: Blades of ANY length can be lethal...in the right hands..Remember box cutters? those were used on sept 11th.
TSO's incompetent? hmm, I havent heard of ANY attacks on US soil since TSA was stood up, coincidence? Maybe, but doubtful.
TSA hires idiots: Did you know at least half the TSO's are prior Military or Police officers.
Room for improvement? Always.
Do you know anyone that served in the Military? if so, ask them just how small an IED can be, they'll tell you. Then the whole 3-1-1 deal will make sense.
Bottom line is TSO's have a job to do, let em do it. You dont have to agree with it but you do have to abide buy the regulations for air travel no matter how silly it SEEMS to be. There is always a reason for the methods and processes you may not understand. TSA is an agency that is only 7 years old, there are growing pains. Be patient, follow the guidelines. Just take a moment and think about if screening didnt take place at all? Would you be comfortable flying?or your family, friends?
April 9, 2008 1:22 PM
Apparently airlines & TSA have different security procedures when it comes to medical conditions requiring liquids to be carried on. We called the airlines ahead of time to ask if dialysis solution was allowed on the plane. We were informed that all we needed was a doctor's note be allowed to carry on the dialysis solution for her kidney dialysis which is mandatory to perform every 4 hours;
File a coplaint with TSA, both of your Senators and your Congressman. The abuse of confiscation of medical products has to stop.
April 9, 2008 6:25 PM
Be patient, follow the guidelines. Just take a moment and think about if screening didnt take place at all? Would you be comfortable flying?or your family, friends?
April 9, 2008 1:22 PM
How many years were there before 9/11 that had no hijacker induced fatalities on US airlines? Airline travel is one of the safest even before TSA came on line. You're telling us to just shut up, follow directions, and don't ever, ever question the man behind the screen. The traveling public isn't buying it.
April 9, 2008 7:18 PM
I keep reading different statistics about the amount of weapons and/or IED's we TSO's catch. I'm not sure where you folks get your stats but individual TSO's have to do so much better than that at catching threats. I can't give our numbers due to SSI rules and not knowing what they are exactly but they are more than 3 times the stats that keep cropping up on these blogs.
April 10, 2008 6:22 PM
hey bob, yes map is "The map does not work." checed pls
April 13, 2008 3:31 AM
The worst part of security checking is having to take your shoes off.
Provide scanners where you can place your feet with your shoes on for scanning. The Rochester, MN airport has this and it is great. Until then:
Always have a dry, clean, area to walk on after you take your shoes off - nothing is worse than taking your shoes off and ending up with wet feet.
Provide somewhere to sit down to put your shoes back on – older people find it difficult to bend down to tie their shoes and they (as well as people with foot problems) can't always wear sandals or loafers.
Don't have agents yelling "move along" while you are trying to get your shoes back on.
April 16, 2008 11:58 AM
I am a general aviation pilot. I've only recently learned about Security Identification Display Areas (SIDA) around some, but not all, ramp sides of passenger terminals and some cargo areas. I've also learned through reading material in 49 CFR 5142 and the FAA's AC 150/4350-1 which is now cancelled, presumably because TSA has authority over security, that there are no standards for marking SIDA. Current FAA advisory circulars on airport markings are silent on SIDA. I have found examples of SIDA marked with yellow solid lines, white solid lines, no lines, green lines, red lines, dashed lines... In other words, it is impossible for a transient pilot to know if an area is a SIDA or not. Yet there is the potential for a $10,000 fine for violating a SIDA. Recently two General Aviation pilots landed at Yakima (YKM), parked their aircraft in the transient parking, and walked to the terminal. In so doing they crossed the SIDA boundary, and entered the sterile area where passengers had just been screened. Who was at fault? The pilots had no idea what a SIDA was, the markings were novel and unknown. The doors from the outside were not locked. There was no commercial aircraft parked on the ramp. There is no listing of SIDA in any materials I am aware of that are readily available to general aviation pilots. There are no websites that list airports with SIDA, including locations of the SIDA and how the areas are marked and delineated. This is obviously a serious problem that can only become larger as TSA increasinly regulates cargo as well as smaller airports. I recommend STRONGLY that TSA, in cooperation with the FAA, establish clear and definite standards for marking SIDA. TSA and FAA should also find a means of communicating where SIDA are located to all pilots! Information provided to pilots should include on which airports SIDA exist, and where on those airports are SIDA located. Finally, SIDA should be established with input from airport users. Simple configuration changes can assure security objectives are fully met, yet impact other airport users much less.
April 17, 2008 1:52 PM
Annonymous said..."It disgusts me to see these comments..." CD (IAH) Mar. 27, 2008 This was posted as a comment for
BOS at 9:25
DCA 9:24
DAL 9:22
DFW 9:23
SLC and LAX either did not receive this cut-and-paste or the Western Region removed the comments when it was found that the comment was generic, rather than specific for these airports. THe comment did appear out of place in tone among the other comments.
NB
April 17, 2008 8:17 PM
TSA was a bad idea. Airlines should be responsible for their own security just like banks.
April 20, 2008 5:43 AM
I used my new Clear Card for the first time today. As a result of the Clear application process, TSA now has biometric positive identification of who I am and enough information to run a complete background check. Yet using the Clear Card takes LONGER than not using it. At DCA, you go through the whole Clear screening process and then start at the beginning of the TSA process as if you had walked in off the street and TSA had no idea who you are. When will TSA finally understand that triage and fitting the level of security scrutiny to how much it knows about the passenger and the perceived level of threat is the only way to speed lines for frequent and trusted passengers and concentrate scarce resources where the problem really is? As it is, TSA has rendered the Clear Card absolutely useless and there still is no trusted traveler program.
April 24, 2008 10:53 PM
I think it would be great to Post a Picture of Richard Reid at the checkpoints with a reminder that this person was caught and is in JAIL today. Doens't make it any easier, but does soften the tension that we are doing this for the right reasons. overall I think TSA does a great job.
April 27, 2008 8:40 AM
I know that the TSA has been getting a bad rap since 9/11 for trying to improve Airport Security. I personally thank them for that, and I have no problems jumping threw the hoops to get to the plane for my plane.
What I do have a problem with is the Rotten, Self center, Bully, Airline workers...They are stuck on the idea that they are the Airline gods.
So why don't you fire all of them, hire and train more TSA security workers to man the desk. And they can do double duty.
April 27, 2008 8:56 AM
We flew from IAH to SEA for our son's wedding with my Brother-in-law, who had two replacement knees. At IAH, he told the TSA rep and had no problems.
At SEA on our return, we entered the screening line two hours before our flight. Only three lines were open and several were closed, and there were approximately 250 people in the line.
Brother-in-law of course beeped walking through the scanner. He explained about his knees. He was spread-eagled, and the TSA did a full body scan with his wand, and amazingly he found his left knee beeped. He spread-eagled him again, and did a full body scan the second time. Then scanned the left side of the same knee, and it beeped. He spread-eagled him the third time, and did a full body scan. He scanned both knees on all four sides, and did a total of nine full body scans. This took nearly fifteen minutes, and American held the flight for us, as my wife had gone on ahead to tell them we would be coming. I am a retired United Airlines pilot, and am thankful that I am not subjected to these incompetent scanners.
April 27, 2008 9:00 AM
I have a small 300 watt power supply that I carry in my checked bag to charge my computer battery. Every time my bag goes through Phoenix airport they remove all the screws that hold the cover on and most of the screws that hold the rest of the unit together to inspect it. When they are finished they throw the cover and some of the screws back in my bag and my supply comes back to me as a piece of junk! I have had about 10 units broke this way. I sure would like this to stop. Is it a good idea for a tsa person to take apart an electronic device that they think they need to look at?
April 27, 2008 9:06 AM
As a frequent traveler I am thankful for increased security. I have not had any bad experiences with TSA inspections. Yes, I have had my bags gone through, but I'm not complaining. I enjoy the security and respect the TSA employees who have to make important decisions. Here is a suggestion: Build conveyors to return the plastic totes to the front of the lines to a pick point.
April 27, 2008 9:28 AM
Barb from Chicago
The inconstitencies at O'Hare airport regarding the checking of personal belongings and bags on the conveyor belt being separated and my being screened due to a hip replacement is very upsetting. Someone is going to walk off with these belongings because there isn't any security watching over these items while I'm being checked over.
Why can't the procedure be changed to have the TSA bring the belongings when the female TSA screens me.
April 27, 2008 9:38 AM
We live in Tyler, Texas. About one year ago, we got a call at 3 AM that our son was in the emergency room in Boston, having fallen on icy stairs in Norway. He suffered four cracked vertebra, concussion, broken nose, and fractured skull. He flew to Paris, then to Boston, not realizing the full extent of his injuries, and then went to the hospital.
My wife was near Houston, and she drove 4 1/2 hours home, to pack her clothes, and I purchased a one-way ticket on the 8 AM flight, for her to Boston from Tyler, with a connection in Dallas.
We made it to the airport with 20 minutes to spare, and she was the last one to check-in, and last one to enter the screening line.
Because of the one-way ticket, to Boston, and last minute purchase and check-in, it apparently triggered a thorough screening.
The TSA wanded her several times, and found the snap on her slacks, and on her bra. She told my wife that she had an underwire bra on, which she didn't, and so what? Then she told her to remove her belt, which she didn't have. She practically had to undress to show her.
I was waiting outside the check-in area, because if my wife didn't make this flight I was going to have to drive her to Dallas for the connecting flight, a 2 1/2 hour trip.
This whole process took almost 10 minutes. My wife is 65 years old, and doesn't fit anyones profile that I know of.
The police sergeant on duty and the TSA screener looked at me, and stated: "There is always one", not knowing anything or caring anything about our situation. I nearly said something, but thought better of it, as they probably would have pulled my wife off the flight.
Poetic Justice: This TSA screener was fired for walking across a taxiway on her way home, violating airport security.
I flew as a United Airlines pilot for 30 years, all over the world, and our screening process is the worst in the world. Rude, arrogant, incompetent and ignorant screeners. The Homeland Security and TSA is the worst thing that President Bush has done in his administration, and that comment is coming from a lifelong Republican.
April 27, 2008 9:40 AM
In my training as a military intel.officer, photo interpreter, I was taught in the first week that we have to know what we are looking for, and the characteristics which would establish that particular identity. If I was to identify a missle site, certain items would be evident, logistic routes, hardware etc. I would not be looking for elements for hydro-electrict production.
As the very expierience Chief instructer said " this is called profiling, better said, it's common sense". In this day of PC, I don't see this in A/Ps. Every person is the same.
Can we imlement my Chiefs admonition?
April 27, 2008 11:14 AM
Anonymous comment:
The idea of a blog is great. It would help the process if the "comment" button was before all of the blog postings so a person doesn't need to scroll through all of the comments first.
Comment: My father is almost 90 and had a hip replacement. Thus, he needs a manual search and screen every time he flies - a great embarrassment, inconvenience and difficulty for him. Is there some way a person could get a doctor's note or state-issued statement regarding the hip replacement so he can avoid this type of search?
April 29, 2008 12:59 PM
Great idea! :-)
I travel a lot & will definitely return to this site to leave comments in the coming weeks. Kudos to you!
May 3, 2008 8:13 AM
One of the comments I read was about consistenancy. I travel by plane about 3 times a year. Not much by some standards. I have always used the prescribed method of the 3 oz bottle size since it was instituted. I did not completely examine two bottles I use but I have been using them since 2003. Recently in WPB airport the TSA woman stated that I was using one bottle in violation of restrictions. It was a3.3 oz bottle. Even though it was less than half full she took it away. I was a tad perturbed because I had been using that bottle since the restrictions were put in place and no one else complained. When I got home I checked all of the other bottles. One was 4 oz and one was 3.3 oz. So why did she scrutinize one bottle and not the other? Only the 4 oz bottle was clear plastic. The 3.3 oz she took away and the 3.3 oz she left for me both could not be seen through? I am somewhat baffled.
May 3, 2008 3:06 PM
Here is an excellent article on what Israel, a country that also is very serious about airline security, could teach us. As the article states: "Of course the Israelis check for bombs and weapons too, but always with the understanding that things don't hijack planes, terrorists do - and that the best way to detect terrorists is to focus on intercepting not bad things, but bad people."
What Israeli security could teach America
Jeff Jacoby
http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/08/23/opinion/edjacoby.php
BOSTON: The safest airline in
the world, it is widely agreed, is El Al, Israel's national carrier. The safest airport is Ben Gurion International, in Tel Aviv. No El Al plane has been attacked by terrorists in more than three decades, and no flight leaving Ben Gurion has ever been hijacked. So when U.S. aviation intensified its focus on security after Sept. 11, it seemed a good bet that the experience of travelers in American airports would increasingly come to resemble that of travelers flying out of Tel Aviv.
But in telling ways, the two experiences remain notably different. For example, most passengers in the United States are required to take off their shoes for X-ray screening, while passengers at Ben Gurion are spared that indignity. On the other hand, major American airports generally offer the convenience of curbside check-in, while in Israel baggage and traveler stay together until the security check is completed. Screeners at American airports don't usually engage in conversation with passengers, unless you count their endlessly repeated instructions about emptying pockets and taking laptops out of briefcases. At Ben Gurion, security officials make a point of engaging in dialogue with almost everyone who's catching a plane.
Nearly five years after Sept. 11, 2001, U.S. airport security remains obstinately focused on intercepting bad things - guns, knives, explosives. It is a reactive policy, aimed at preventing the last terrorist plot from being repeated. The 9/11 hijackers used box cutters as weapons, so sharp metal objects were barred from carry-on luggage. The would-be suicide terrorist Richard Reid tried to ignite a bomb in his shoe, so now everyone's footwear is screened for tampering. Earlier this month British authorities foiled a plan to blow up airliners with liquid explosives; as a result, toothpaste and cologne have become air-travel contraband.
Of course the Israelis check for bombs and weapons too, but always with the understanding that things don't hijack planes, terrorists do - and that the best way to detect terrorists is to focus on intercepting not bad things, but bad people. To a much greater degree than in the United States, security at El Al and Ben Gurion depends on intelligence and intuition - what Rafi Ron, the former director of security at Ben Gurion, calls the human factor.
Israeli airport security, much of it invisible to the untrained eye, begins before passengers even enter the terminal. Officials constantly monitor behavior, alert to clues that may hint at danger: bulky clothing, say, or a nervous manner. Profilers - that's what they're called - make a point of interviewing travelers, sometimes at length. They probe, as one profiling supervisor told CBS, for "anything out of the ordinary, anything that does not fit." Their questions can seem odd or intrusive, especially if your only previous experience with an airport interrogation was being asked whether you packed your bags yourself.
Unlike in U.S. airports, where passengers go through security after checking in for their flights and submitting their luggage, security at Ben Gurion comes first. Only when the profiler is satisfied that a passenger poses no risk is he or she allowed to proceed to the check-in counter. By that point, there is no need to make him remove his shoes, or to confiscate his bottle of water.
Airport security in the United States is inching its way toward screening people, rather than just their belongings. At a handful of airports, security officers are being trained to notice facial expressions, body language, and speech patterns, which can hint at a traveler's hostile intent or fear of being caught.
But because federal policy still bans ethnic or religious profiling, U.S. passengers continue to be singled out for special scrutiny mostly on a random basis. Countless hours have been spent patting down elderly women in wheelchairs, toddlers with pacifiers, even former U.S. vice presidents - time that could have been used instead to concentrate on passengers with a greater likelihood of being terrorists.
No sensible person imagines that ethnic or religious profiling alone can stop every terrorist plot. But it is illogical and potentially suicidal not to take account of the fact that so far every suicide-terrorist plotting to take down an American plane has been a radical Muslim man. It is not racism or bigotry to argue that the prevention of Islamist terrorism necessitates a special focus on Muslim travelers, just as it is not racism or bigotry when police trying to prevent a Mafia killing pay closer attention to Italians.
Of course most Muslims are not violent jihadis, but all violent jihadis are Muslim. "This nation," President George W. Bush has said, "is at war with Islamic fascists." How much longer will we tolerate an aviation security system that pretends, for reasons of political correctness, not to know that?
Jeff Jacoby's column appears regularly in The Boston Globe.
May 4, 2008 9:14 AM
FYI, the Shoes thread is stuck in February. Though a page 2 is shown at the end of the 1st page, clicking "Newer" or "Newest" does not advance to the newer records. It merely refreshes the first page. It's been like this forever. Can your IT people fix this? Otherwise, the thread is useless.
May 4, 2008 12:18 PM
The following is a series of communications (newest to oldest) that I sent and recieved via the TSA Contact Us link. I haven't recieved a response to my latest answer to the reply from TSA.
Hoping to hear from them regarding the issue I raised.
I am hopefully just confused, if not, I am angry with the response to my email. After reading your response, which appears to be canned and outdated (RT program to be started in June, 2006), it fails to address the fact that holders of a TWIC have had their background checked BY THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY, parent department of the TRANSPORTATION SECURITY AGENCY, which would be your department. If you investigate this inquiry, you will find that we must maintain our vetted status in order to perform our job as Merchant Mariners. Our cards expire and have to be renewed through, again, the DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY. It is much the same as the personnel in the TSA and Homeland Security Department, if we fail a background check then we lose our TWIC.
Again, I would ask for you to research my request in earnest and give me an explanation that is pertinent to my inquiry.
Professionally,
Thank you for your e-mail. We apologize for the delayed response due to unusually high e-mail volumes and technical difficulties. We understand that your travel may have already passed, but hope the information provided will be of assistance in your future travel. We apologize if you have received multiple auto replies - we are working to correct this technical problem. We encourage you to check the latest information at www.tsa.gov.
TSA is examining the possibility and the potential means of integrating individuals who have security clearances through other programs (i.e., military or government officials). A key challenge is the fact that each government agency issues security clearances using a distinct set of disqualifying criteria based on that agency's specific mission. Therefore, TSA would have to establish a policy that would allow the transfer of an individual's background investigation via reciprocity to TSA for the purpose of enrolling in RT. Another security issue for Registered Traveler would be keeping the participant database continuously up-to-date through the frequent re-vetting of individuals. The integration of individuals with security clearances would require TSA to have a means to verify the status of that clearance on a frequent basis and to establish that the cost of verifying the person with an active security clea rance is less than the cost of simply conducting the RT Security Threat Assessment.
Finally, the RT user fee will cover the entire cost of providing RT services and not just the security threat assessment. There are many components to the RT program including enrollment, identity and RT status verification at the airport, and oversight. The user fees covers the equipment and labor necessary to conduct the activities necessary to allow participants to benefit from expedited security screening. RT will be wholly funded by user fees and will not receive funding from taxpayers. Consequently, in any case, user fees would not be waived for military or other Federal employees or contractors.
Screening of the first Registered Traveler participants is expected to begin June 20, 2006. We encourage you to visit our website at http://www.tsa.gov for additional information and future updates about the RT program.
We appreciate that you took the time to share your concerns with us. Your help and support are important contributions to ensuring the safety of the Nation's aviation system.
TSA Contact Center
--- Original Message ---
From:
Received: 4/29/2008 9:50:43 AM Eastern Standard Time (GMT - 4:00 )
To: "TSA
Subject: Customer Service Feedback
THIS GENERATED EMAIL HAS BEEN SENT FROM TSA INTERNET CONTACT US-CUSTOMER SERVICE
Remote Client IP: 64.19.241.158
System Time: 4/29/2008 6:25:02 AM
__________________________________________
User Name:
User Email:
To:
tsa-
Category:
All Other Inquiries
Message:
I am a Merchant Marine Captain and fly, in CONUS, on a regular basis. Recently your home agency, Dept. of Homeland Security, has required that all Merchant Mariners obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC). In order to obtain this credential, all mariners have incurred a fee of $105.00 - $137.50. This was to offset the cost of additional background investigations and vetting. It would seem to a reasonable person that passing this additional investigation would, at a minimum, allow us expedited security clearance at our nation's airports. I am inquiring about this after researching the CLEAR PASS program which is a private commercial version of TWIC for about the same fee. Since our background investigation was conducted by the Dept. of Homeland Security, your parent agency, we should have this consideration at all TSA checkpoints.
You thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated.
Professionally,
__________________________________________
Date and Time of message: 4/29/2008 6:25:02 AM
------ TCC Control Number: ------
<<#192448-270937#>>
May 9, 2008 11:34 AM
I have posted a couple of comments the last couple of days.
Some post you have not allowed at all since TSA refuses to address the MMW WBI issues.
Other post you have allowed but only after TSA editing.
I understand that you can refuse to post a comment but by what right to you use to edit my remarks?
When I place a comment it is intended to be complete as I wrote it, not TSA, and not for TSA to change the intent of the remark.
So for once, resolve the MMW issue, and do not edit my remarks!
May 9, 2008 4:43 PM
I have been trying to report a camera that I lost during the security procedures at Schiphol Airport on May 8. I just get the runaround and inaccurate email addresses.
Who is in charge of that security at Schiphol?
Hazel
May 16, 2008 5:23 PM
I fly domestic about 1/month, usually for business. I recently took a family trip with my wife and 20 month old daughter. It was nice to have a separate line designated at the security checkpoint to allow mom's and dad's to address the extras that travelling with children present without feeling pressured to move the line along quickly so as not to hold up faster passengers. One tip, though, please train the TSA people working in the family line to smile (or at least be family friendly in some manner). We felt like we avoided impatient passengers only to encounter impatient TSA workers.
May 18, 2008 3:52 PM
How can persons with metal implants provide TSA with a document, small xray photo so we do not have to bear the indignity of body scans. My metal frame reading glasses were required to go thru xray because the wand beeped.In the dozens of times I have flown since 9/11 my reading glasses have never been taken and scanned. The guy said Orange Alert. I've traveled during many Org. Alts. before.
Is there a frequent traveler card that proves out background in OK. I've had a government security clearance which took months of FBI background check. Can't that count for something.
Thanks,
Jack
May 19, 2008 4:33 PM
I have a Question for all of you out there that are bitching about having to go through a little extra screening. Would you rather people be able to bring prohibited items on the aircraft you are about to fly on with your family ? I say better safe than sorry. There is a reason behind the things prohibited in your carry on bags. And if you dont know the reasons MAYBE you should get informed. A terrorist can be anyone , any age, any race. They are only limited to there own imagination when it comes to terror!!!! Just remember that the next time you bring a prohibited item to checkpoint. I for one am glad you got it taken away.
May 20, 2008 11:41 AM
American Airline's new $15 checked bag policy might seem like just another attempt to nickel and dime the public, but there may be a greater security issue at stake. With more passengers preferring not to pay and rather carrying bags on planes, the number of bags going through security check points will increase. TSA has improved security over the last seven years, but nothing is impenetrable, and the greater number of bags being scanned may seem like an opportunity to slip dangerous items by, unnoticed. I urge TSA to step in and demand that American remove this fee, and no longer encourage passengers to clog security check points with unnecessary confusion.
I hope more than just the public reads these comments.
May 22, 2008 8:49 PM
GRIPES AND GRINS PART 3
Bloggers, Can't get to the newest comments on that thread. Seems it is stuck on 200.
How about a fix!
May 23, 2008 9:29 AM
Thanks for creating this blog. For the most part, TSA is a noble effort...but this is handled poorly.
I have groped and fondled...by women...who pat me down because of a metal implant. Okay, it's my fault that I have an implant, so I totally support your efforts to utilize whole body imaging. That way, they can see the metal implant and not have to touch my breasts and the inner portions of my thighs.
On several occasions, I have been asked for my phone number and questioned if I were married or if I was looking for a nice TSA guy to date. I thought of calling a supervisor, but did not because I would probably miss my flight. However, once I did, and the supervisor just giggled. I don't have time for games.
If TSA is truly finding guns, etc., then that is awesome. But, to have letcherous male attendants is not a good thing for females who travel alone for business.
May 26, 2008 2:25 PM
Anonymous:
During one of my recent flights from Orange County to El Paso, Texas, I witnessed some discrepancy in your screening process which I would like to bring to your attention. On my way to El Paso via Phoenix on May 21st, 2008 on a US airways flight 42, I brought all my toiletries in a plastic zip lock back as mandated by TSA. Nothing was said about the size of my plastic bag. However, on my return flight from El Paso to Orange county via Phoenix on US airways flight 422, the TSA screener who was looking at the screen came over right before my tray was to enter the X-Ray, picks up my plastic bag, slams it back on the tray and goes back to monitoring the screen. He then comes back and states that my plastic bag is too big and I have two options:
1) Go back down and put it in a smaller plastic bag.
2) Dump everything.
I proceed to ask him how was I able to fly into El Paso with the same plastic bag and his response to me was he did not know and shrugged his shoulders. So I proceeded downstairs to put my medicated skin ointments into a smaller plastic bag when I was told that there were NO MORE PLASTIC BAGS LEFT!!!!!!.
I realize that you have a job to do which is to ensure the safety of all concerned. Being a frequent traveler, I really appreciate this and I have never filed a complaint, however, what I experienced in El Paso was RIDICULOUS. Let us harass an innocent passenger for the size of his toiletries bag, but we will not discuss the fact that my original flight from SNA to Phoenix (on 05/21) was delayed due to your diligent work where an idiot was allowed to bring contraband on to the aircraft.
Please help me understand as to why it is acceptable for me to travel to El Paso with my toiletries but the screener at the El Paso airport security asked me to discard my items?
P.S. To all screeners, keep up the good work. You are one of the reasons as to why the airline industry is head down the toilet……………..
May 27, 2008 4:27 PM
At our airport we hear as an excuse I got through LAX or Seattle or such and such airport with that item. It doesn't matter that the item is a too large bag, a too large liquid, or a knife they say they got through that other airport like that changes things. Think of it this way: would you ask the cop that stopped you for speeding why you got stopped today when you've been speeding all week long in this city, and in that city? No you wouldn't. Like the cops we don't always catch you but the rules are the same everywhere. Speed limits may change but breaking them is still against the rules.
May 28, 2008 12:14 PM
I find that the recent changes for Identification to be a little un nerving in that when most people are trying to carry less Identification due to the High rate of Identity theft, that DHS is going against the national trend of Law enforcement and Banks telling people to not carry SSAN #s or SSAN Cards do to ptential theft. But yet that is what TSA is asking for when needing more proof of who you are. Isn't there some form that is acceptable so as not to make it easier for the thiefs to get peoples Idenitity?
May 28, 2008 7:22 PM
I am surprised to find there hasn't been a lawsuit yet from a traveller developing/acquiring some sickness/disease/illness from the unhygenic screening process. There ought to be a separate bin (in a discerning colour) that's specific to footwear only. To many people, it is completely disgusting and unhygenic to place personal belongings/food items in the same bins where footwear is placed. All kinds of people travel incl. enough dirty ones. And, how often are those current bins disinfected anyway? It's bad enough that I have to walk through the screening machine shoeless on some bacteria harbouring mat (which I would hope is disinfected at least once or twice a day)...
May 29, 2008 11:07 PM
Example: locking of luggage. All TSA employees are not equal in their knowledge of current rules and regulations. I've literally watched one TSA person say one thing regarding locks and luggage and later hear another say something entirely different. I've witness this type discrepancy too often.
May 29, 2008 11:11 PM
Anything to say about this article regarding "How not to get your things stolen by TSA screeners?"
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/travel/elliott/5797824.html
While traveling I definitely worry about lost luggage but I believe worries about TSA screeners stealing from baggage is as much higher and unnecessary concern that a lot of travelers have. Can you address what the article claims as a complete lack of reimbursement across the board for items that are taken?
June 1, 2008 9:34 AM
In the spirit of openness and interactivity, here is a suggestion for how TSA might be of yet greater service to travellers. Would you please compute the security wait time statistics -- for each terminal of each airport served for each 15 minute interval in the 18 hours of operation for each day of the week -- and post the information on this web site on an "as-is, no guarantees" basis? The data would be enormously helpful to travellers' ground logistic plans. The incremental cost to the TSA should be minimal, given the data that is already collected at the security stations today.
There is no need for such data to be real-time or comprehensive. Just state the window of observation represented in the data and the refresh rate (e.g., weekly, monthly, whatever). Anectdotally, the lines on Wednesdays are shorter than Mondays or Fridays (staffing level changes, notwithstanding) but KNOWING that would be very useful.
Thanks for that and for all the fine work keeping travel safe.
Hope to see you soon ...
June 3, 2008 11:02 AM
Let us remember 9/11/01 and the purpose TSA serves, which is to protect public aviation. Why have we created a retail (starbucks) environment and call it "security?" We should concern ourselves further with safety and security not wait times or mood lighting.
June 6, 2008 12:14 AM
Now that you have decided to invade my freedom to privacy even more with the installation of full body scanners. (see Link) http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/06/tsas-millimeter-scanners-see-through-clothes-installed-at-10-a/
Thank you for giving me one more reason not to fly.
June 6, 2008 5:22 PM
I just returned from a return trip from Houston, TX to Aberdeen, SD, via Dallas and Minneapolis. I checked my suitcase in Houston, and didn't see it again (as expected) until Aberdeen, SD. When I got home, and opened my suitcase, it looked like a tornado had gone through it. I have traveled throughout the world, and I can tell you that this did not happen by itself. The clothes were balled up, and prescription medicine (pills) were dumped into the mess.
I fully understand the need for security, but the way my belonging were treated is simply disrespectful. Unfortunately, there is no way to hold anyone accountable for this, so they can continue to treat the traveling citizens however they chose. I find this disgraceful!
June 7, 2008 1:51 AM
Why exactly does TSA think that inconveniencing travelers over liquids and gels is making anything safer? Supposedly it prevents 'terrorists' from bringing harmful chemicals onboard. Does anyone really think that a person with mal-intent is really going to just hand over dangerous chemicals? NO! They're going to hide it in their pant leg or something and walk right through the metal detector. These rules are completely absurd and useless... the real intention of instating these rules is to create more fear among travelers. why? Fear is the most potent form of control. Think about it.
June 7, 2008 10:10 AM
I, for one, appreciate this blog and the intension behind it. You folks have a thankless job. While there is always room for improvement - in every organization - the bottom line for me is that there have not been any more major incidents since 9/11 that I am aware of.
I want to comment about the new Full Body Scanners being phased in now. My comment is that I would like to see strong criminal penalties if any image of any person is leaked to the public. In my opinion this action would give the public confidence that their privacy will be protected going through the new scanners.
But if an image shows up on the Internet and nobody goes to jail, I would guess people are not going to feel good about walking through those scanners.
June 8, 2008 11:19 PM
I am a frequent flyer with nearly 1.5 million miles w/ one of the major airlines.
Ever since 9-11, to test the security system, I have been traveling with a credit card sized swiss army device that is equipped with a very sharp knife, scissors, etc. Only twice has this been discovered -- both times in OKC. Once, the guy even guessed what the item was from the x-ray.
What I do is to sandwich the item between a PC card and a old cellular modem in a bag pocket. Further, I press against the pocket my Palm Treo cell phone and my coin filled wallet.
My suggestion to y'all would be to require people to remove their metal stuff and put it in a plastic tray rather than stuffing all of this stuff in their carryon bag.
June 10, 2008 4:47 PM
So much for privacy, either someone gets to look at a picture of our bodies, or they get to touch our bodies. Not only that but the machines probably cost a fortune, and we all know who will pay for them. There should be dogs at the airports, they can smell bombs, or gunpowder, add that to the metal detectors, sealed cockpits, and security agents on flights, everything would be just fine.. Well not everything, the TSA employee who brokered the deal with, and owns stock in the company that makes the machines wouldnt be lining his pockets at the expense of our privacy.. I think I will just drive from now on. More time, but this is a government agency and those pics will be saved and leaked.
June 11, 2008 1:46 AM
I have accompanied my mother, in her late 80's and with severe arthritis, on several trips to visit family or attend funerals. We have traveled between Washington, DC from Dulles, National, and BWI, to Tampa International Airport. Each time, my mother is required to remove her shoes. That is a painful and difficult process for her. Frequently, I have not been allowed to help her, but, on a few occasions, I have been allowed to help her. She has also been required to get up out of her wheel chair and hobble, barefoot, through the metal detector. I have seen other elderly people put through the same very painful process. (1)can't you provide a sturdy plastic chair, on your own sliders, for these elderly people to use, to get through the metal detector? (2) can't you allow an adult child, or even your own personnel, to help someone with severe arthritis to get their shoes off and back on again? I fully understand the requirements for security. However, you have physically hurt my mother, and done so repeatedly, and I am very, very angry about that. I do not see why you cannot fulfill your security function without causing physical pain to vulnerable elderly travelers. Most of the time, your TSA agents range from apologetic to bored; however, there are times when the TSA agent has been active in making the situation for my mother worse, more physically painful for her, and prohibiting me from aiding her in any way. I maintain my cool, but it is extraordinarily difficult in the face of someone who raises his or her voice to my mother in my presence. Frankly, there are some TSA agents who have behaved in ways that would mortify their own mothers.
June 11, 2008 12:01 PM
On the TSA page outlining the required forms of ID, the 2nd sentance reads, "...adult passengers (over the age of 18) will be required to show a U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID..."
However the last sentance reads, "After May 26, passengers who do not present an acceptable ID may be subject to additional screening."
Either a photo ID is required or it isn't. How are people supposed to know what is acceptable and what isn't with such an ambiguous guideline? So, what's the rule?
June 11, 2008 2:51 PM
US Airways has just announced that starting in August, there will no longer be free bevs, including bottled water.
It is universally accepted that air travel is dehydrating. The TSA and the other Federal agencies need to cooperate to either require airlines to provide clean water, or to clearly relax the standards for bringing water and other liquids onboard.
I have no problem in taking empty bottles thru security, and then filling in fountains before boarding, but this option needs to be publicized and not subject to any restrictions, or just plain remove the restrictions on beverage liquids.
The health of the travelers is at stake.
June 13, 2008 4:32 PM
Is there any method that involves a background search, similar to a government security clearance, where one is issued a ID that makes the security process faster? I notice that the crews and handicap persons have a special line. I have a metal hip and am subject to a full body search every time because if anyone trips the metal detector your protocol do a full body search. As you should.
Some question are what are the requirements for employment to become a TSA employee that work at the airport security/scanning group? How long is the training? Are there exams? What are the minimum scores for hire? What are the maximun possible scores?
June 13, 2008 9:11 PM
I'm a TSO. I read this blog alot, and thank everyone for their opinions, comments and suggestions.
But I'm confused. One of the new rules being implemented is....tubes of mascara, make-up, lip balm that are small will no longer be required in a see through bag..Also it will be up to the descretion of the TSO if bottles of water, soda etc. are allowed through!!! Why the 3-1-1 rule then? My colleagues are also shaking their heads. One comment and I agree, is that "we are becoming more PC and airport social workers....,"
Pretty soon they will give us Red-Caps to carry luggage.
Beware of the direction we are heading.
June 14, 2008 1:14 PM
I've worked for the Federal Government for 26 years and my son is a professional pilot. He tells me TSA is an acronym for Thousands Standing Around.
My spouse and I are traveling soon and I take many meds. I was told by TSA, when I called them, that I cannot carry them in my MTWThFSaSu dispenser...I have to carry them in their original labeled bottles.
This is ridiculous, reprehensible, way over the top, and I can't wait to writ my elected officials.
Next time I have a long trip, despite the price of gas, I'll drive. Flying isn't fun anymore...it's a chore.
June 16, 2008 10:58 AM
I do not know who told you that you had to have medicine in it's original packaging but that is wrong. We do not care what packaging medication is in, especially pills. Pills can remain inside of your carry on or purse so I have no idea why anyone would tell you that it must be in the original packaging. Even liquid medication is allowed and doesn't even have to be prescribed just pulled out of your carry on and declared. If a TSO or supervisor decides to do some additional screening on your medication then that is just what will be done. But there are no (I mean no) restrictions on medications being allowed through the checkpoint over the counter or prescription. In fact the airlines recommend that medications be brought through so that the possibility of them being lost is negated.
June 16, 2008 5:55 PM
i'm not sure if this is the proper forum, but the new security system at Sea-Tac airport is terrible. they split it up into two lines, one for casual and one for expert travellers. this doesn't work. it makes the lines longer and slower. plus, i'm silver elite on continental, and they have stopped letting silver elite through the elite line--you have to be gold or better. it's crap.
June 16, 2008 6:27 PM
In my opinion, TSA is a complete waste of taxpayer and airport dollars.
Luckily I have my laptop with me at Newark airport and am sitting in the food court of Terminal A after my terrible experience.
First, I would like to comment on the helpfulness of one of the employees the first time I attempted entry into the secured zone. My flight was cancelled and I am waiting 12 hours for another one (but that's a different Continental story). I went to the checkpoint desk and the young gentleman was helpful and apologized for not being able to let me through because my ticket was for the next calendar day. Understandable. He said if I come back at 12am (which was one hour away), that I would be able to enter. Plus he was helpful in explaining that I should be fine without a bag for my liquids, etc... (I know-shocker)
Anyway-I went back at 12. He was mistaken. They were just closing off the terminal to do a security sweep...ok...this can't take too long...then I'm told that it will be 3am before I go back there. It is 3:25 right now and I went up at 3 right as the new shift was coming on duty and an older woman from Poland (guessing on the accent and I'm usually correct) told me in a rude tone that I wouldn't be able to go in until at least 5am. She blatantly did not care. Here are the TSA agents I'm used to...non-American employees with the biggest chips on their shoulder because they know they can be completely unprofessional and get away with it because THEY have the say in whether someone is going to be going through security and ultimately to their destination. Absurd. I'm all for enabling immigrants to work in our country-but don't give them ultimate power if they can not handle it (and in my experience, most can not).
I explained to the woman that the problem I was having was that I had been approached by not one, or even two, but THREE people already that evening. 2 wanting money and another man who I assume is homeless (hey, it happens), but he seemed to have some sort of disorder (which happens too). The man had daisy-duke like jeans on, wearing a tank top, and looked like he had worked on cars a week ago but hadn't bothered to change since then (or shower). I told her that it wasn't safe out in the main terminal where anyone off the street can walk in and she said to me in a derogatory tone, "just go to the food court, you'll be fine." It's not fine. I am unable to sleep in the common area because who knows what will happen to my belongings...
Through the years since TSA has been wasting away, we seem to have lost focus on what their foundation was a result of. 9/11. Several incidents that destroyed our nation and caused us to be overly protective. I think TSA's formation was warranted, but where are we now? All that I see is a majority of unhappy employees who know that they have more power than they should and they want to take advantage of this power. I'm well educated and come from a good family. I've always known right from wrong, and never cause any trouble. I feel belittled by TSA 95% of the time and don't appreciate what the administration has allowed this organization to become.
Poor management, poor hiring, poor employee evaluation. I wish the TSA were run like a business. It seems as though current procedure is minimal training and just throwing someone out in the open. They develop poor customer service (none), and get off on some sort of power trip that they can not get down off of. Traveling reminds me of Zimbardo's prison experiment wherein the passengers are becoming more like the prisoners to the guards of TSA. In his experiment two groups of students (prisoners and guards) were told to play the parts. What occurred was a complete overpowering effect that the guards had over the prisoners and both sides adapted quickly and were more intense than expected. In airports, these "guards" treat the rest of us like "prisoners" and nothing is being done to stop them.
Maybe TSA was a failure. Why can't we go back to the guards that used to be at the gates? Friendlier people with more than a middle school education and true ambition in life. Train them more than before so they may be more effective. What we have is "broke" and we need to fix it.
June 17, 2008 4:01 AM
Hi everyone,
I'm one of the people that became a TSO out of a committment to service to passengers. The real evolution of security (at Sea- Tac at least) has to do with proper respect for the flying public and plain old good manners.
June 18, 2008 11:20 PM
Many of the TSO's working used to work for the security companies the airports had running the checkpoints prior to 9/11. As a federal employer the TSA cannot discriminate because of ethnicity so finding immigrants or those to whom English isn't their first language working for the TSA is a given.
If you report the incident of not being allowed through this particular checkpoint giving the checkpoint number, date,and times a resolution of the problem is possible.
June 19, 2008 7:27 AM
I'd like to relate an experience at KMSP the other day. As I approached the TSA official who was
checking boarding passes and ID in the security line, he asked me where I was traveling. When I told him my destination, he asked me why I was going there. "Because that's where I live." His reponse was, "I'm sorry to hear that, but have a nice day anyway."
First of all, that is the first time a boarding pass checker has asked me anything about my itinerary. Second, I don't need this guy making editorial comments about where I choose to live. For a fleeting moment I thought about making an equally snide comment in return -- but in the interests of not giving this power-monger more ammo, I thought better of it and kept my mouth shut.
It was recently announced that the TSA will soon be issuing metal badges to their employees because the flying public doesn't respect them enough. Trust me, respect doesn't come from a hunk of metal hanging on your shirt.
How about some better screening of employees and better training once they're hired, so the Mr. Bigshots like the guy described above don't tarnish the TSA's already sullied reputation?
June 19, 2008 10:01 AM
i am a little upset with my most recent flight out of san diego, ca. i was flying with my husband and two kids, one who is one and the other who is 6. we went through the green line for the disabled and those needing extra help. i got pulled out of line due to setting off the alarm. my husband and children, went onwards alone. i was waiting in the holding area with the plastic/glass surrounding where i was told that i could not leave to help my husband. so, i asked the gentlemen who asked me to step in there to see if he can get someone to assist my husband. my husband was holding a baby, and using the other free hand to pull off two strollers and open them up, get his wallet, ipod, phone, and three pairs of shoes on, grab the diaper bag, the cooler for the milk bottles, and hold the sweaters and blanket. i also asked the lady who was going to screen me to maybe help him out a little. she ignored me as well. i stood there helplessly watching while other people who were NOT disabled or needing help were breezing through the line making it harder for him to gather his things. 1.if you have a special line, keep it for those people, not all. 2.when there is someone in that line who is in obvious need of assistance, and someone is asking for it, DO NOT ignore them! I was so disappointed that people could be so unkind.
June 19, 2008 6:51 PM
The TSA does a generally good job, but they really need more training with regard to Photo ID. A few weeks ago, at SFO, a TSA agent rejected my government issued, photo ID - an Attorney ID Card issued through the Sheriff's office. I was told that "we only accept a photo driver's license or a government employee photo ID.
That, as I understand it is an error. My Attorney ID has been accepted many times, so it seems that some additional training is needed.
June 20, 2008 9:52 AM
The ID rules have changed many times and knowing what is and isn't a valid for entry into the sterile area takes looking at a list. I'm not sure since I'm not looking at the rules right now if it's acceptable now.
June 27, 2008 6:25 PM
First off this worst "comment" page I have ever had to navigate. Why don't you have the post a comment "button" at the top of the page instead of after the thousand cpmplaints? Typical govt. ineficency. Will anyone with real "pull" read these comments, so they can effect change? Is this just another place to let think they have a voice, like voting for changes in the law only to have the High and mighty Sumpreme tell us they know better? The main problem is the gov. has no reason to be accountable. No private business could be run like this and stay in business.
Court then tells us
June 27, 2008 8:37 PM
The main problem with the TSA is that it is a Bastard agency. Who is their daddy? They are not part of the military, federal or state law enforcement. The power to search is given by the Federal Gov., but no power to arrest. The power to operate within the Gov. but not truly a force within the Gov.. I believe the truth came out with the first patch made for the TSA. A blue eagle cartoon seen from the side. Where have I seen this before? The POST OFFICE! Of course!, the power to make you stand in line adhere to all arbitrary rules, a "uniform". No power to arrest or really do anthing on their own. Yep, so maybe the Father was the DMV? The only government agency more hated is the IRS, but they can take your money. The truth is the TSA should have been a Federal Police agency from the start. Linked with the FBI. With adeqete fundung for real training with a high enough standard to keep out the thieves and a high enough pay scale to attract proffesinal level people. The people who complain about the low quality of the average screener are right. The problem is the Gov. program for hiring dictates that you must hire a percentage of people from the community around the job site. Are your airports surounded by wonderful honest inteligent and superior people? If you don't like the quality of service from the TSA, write to the PRESIDENT who created the position in the first place. Don't waste your time here.
June 27, 2008 9:05 PM
I was on a flight from San Francisco to Asia. My checked in luggage was locked with a TSA approved locked to protect from theft. TSA just opened it and took my lock. When I reached my destination, the lock was gone. I was lucky that nothing was taken at the destination airport. Looks like these TSA guys are not very professional.
June 30, 2008 12:40 AM
So I flew through Raleigh-Durham today and have two actual complaints... First, in Terminal C they had the lines set up for the different tiers of travellers and guess what? They all funneled into the same one security line. Also, the TSAgent who did a secondary search on my bag was too busy cursing at his fellow employees to actually explain to me what he was doing. Great work guys!
July 1, 2008 7:53 PM
On thursday july 3 my spouse flew on united flt 917 from iad to sea then home to pdx on uax 5791.upon unpacking her suitcase on friday july 4.she found her medication opened an capules opened and scatter in her bag .makeup remover opened not shut an not put back in baggie she had it in so it leaked an ruined several items in her bag.the rum she got in jamaica an packed for travel cut open with a stanley knife and then the knife left in her bag an the blade out where she almost cut open her hand as she was unpacking.so meds ruined,clothing ruined.and a knife left by tsa in her bag open.i am bagging the knife the bag tag with the tsa sticker on it an presenting it to tsa in pdx.but something wrong happened here.
July 6, 2008 2:21 AM
I only wish to comment about a male TSA employee "patting down" my wife, while she was on a business trip to Florida. If I had known of this sooner, I would have taken legal steps, to the fullest. Under NO circumstances should a male security person pat down a female. PERIOD. That is one reason female security personnel are hired. Now don't take this as a threat, but as a promise, if this happens again, I will take legal steps. I am sure that you will not post this, as it makes you look bad, as it should.
July 6, 2008 11:25 AM
http://www.washingtontimes.com/weblogs/aviation-security/2008/Jul/01/want-some-torture-with-your-peanuts/
Any comment on the above plan on the possibility of making all airline passengers wear electro-muscular disruptor bracelets on board the aircraft?
July 7, 2008 11:55 PM
Were those eyebrows real?????
July 8, 2008 9:06 PM
The disclaimer that TSA does not support private and commercial entities is patently false. To wit: The "Premiun Passenger" security line at IAD (not to be confused with the "Blue Square" offered separately which allows such passengers to by pass the regular security lines for economey passengers. What's up with that? The first class or other premium passengers have privilages granted by the Airlines. They should not be given special consideration by TSA -- a government agency -- over the economey passengers. As a frequent government traveller and tax payer, I would like a public explanation.
July 9, 2008 8:49 AM
the tsa is an organization ( some will take issue w/ that term) comprised of many individuals from many walks of life. an incompetent few make it difficult for the flying public. the rest do their best to move us along and add to our general security. it is a thankless job at best and one that i've squared off against at times due perhaps to the officious officer at the wrong place and time. nonetheless this website is a breath of fresh air and i only wish the same attitude i find here could somehow carry over to our airports.
July 9, 2008 4:55 PM
While I respect the need for security, it is beyond a joke to believe that that we are truly any safer today that we were years ago. Yes we have metal detectors. Agents who screen luggage, but you know what. The whole purpose of all this is to catch whack jobs too dumb to circumvent the system. Case in point, I can't take a bottle of water that I am currently drinking through security, but I watch time and time again a guys with handtrucks carry water in by the pallet through security. hmmmm. They are all to be trusted right. I've been detained while the "Good Guys" ravage my luggage to find an "Empty" Carmex jar .04 oz container. hmmmm Dangerous stuff. But hey I can take C-4 in my jeans and walk right through. I can have a Plastic knife (just as effective and a metal knife) in my sock and walk right through. I don't mean to rip on security, but lets face it. The purpose of security is to make us FEEL secure, and keep out the obvious threats. Those with any IQ can easily circumvent the system.
I fly weekly, and am beyond annoyed with the complex system that only stops the innocent and the lunatics too foolish to use common sense to get past "Secuity"
hmmm.
I want to FEEL secure, but it's just an illusion to calm the masses. I basically play the odds. The odds are stacked in my favor that there won't be a terrorist on my flight. If someone does try anything, I will the first and I'm sure not the only one on the flight to let him know this won't EVER happen again in my country. And I don't need security to help me with this one.
I love you guys, please use some common sense as you do your jobs. It's OK to think.
July 12, 2008 3:11 AM
Looking back over the Blog I re-read the "Delete-O-Meter post.
As a retired U.S. Navy veteran I take great exception to the remark by Blogger Glen where it states the following,
"Profanity (and I thought some sailors knew how to curse)"
This is nothing less than a personal attack by Glen on the whole U.S. Navy. It is inappropriate and in poor taste. To disparage the service men and women of the U.S. Navy is certainly an indication of a less than professional member of the TSA.
I request that Glens insulting remarks be removed.
July 13, 2008 11:01 PM
This is a fantastic idea! Working in an industry where I manage a large group of people to perform above our expectations in customer service, I am delighted that the TSA has decided to ask for feedback on the customer satisfaction of its customers.
As I generally has positive experiences when it comes to the TSA (and I have many) there are the occasional screeners and supervisors who feel it's their duty to talk down to others. Travelling through the "C" checkpoints in Phoenix today, I experienced just such a supervisor. The question, "did you know you cannot do _____," is particularly offensive, as if I had known I wouldn't be doing it, now would I? Yet as I watched the supervisor's lax demeanor and listened to him question other passengers, I was appalled at the experience he was creating for the people going through the line. In addition to hear him sharing stories of the other "stupid travellers" with co-workers as I walked away- blew my mind. I couldn't help but wonder where on the list I ranked in his "stupid traveller" list.
I hope this program is implemented across the country at as many airports as practical. It's time that we start holding these associates accountable for the experiences they create for the travelling public, er... stupid travellers.
July 14, 2008 1:55 PM
Sir, I'm sorry for your negative experiences at the checkpoint. But, I've worked in jobs where customer service is involved for most of my life and coworkers everywhere I've worked as well as I have laughed at the ignorance of some folks. This relieves the stress of the job and helps us deal with the abnoxious and/or angry people we have to deal with on a daily basis. We shouldn't be doing it so that it's heard by other passengers and that is a mistake because it's not professional. But as an example I've had passengers think they had to go through the EDS machines (baggage xray) and have their shoes off ready to climb in. Thinks like that are seemingly so ridiculous it's impossible not to laugh.
July 16, 2008 8:55 AM
It is a shame that at 66 yeARS OF AGE IF I DIDN'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT COMPUTER I WOULDN'T BE ABLE TO TRAVEL BY AIR BEACAUSE THERE IS NO PHONE # AVAILABE TO CALL THAT I COULD FIND TO ASK QUESTION AS TO WHAT i CAN BRING IN MY SUITCASE AS FAR AS MEDDICATION AND NON-MEDICINE THAT I TAKE WITH OUT A PRESCRPTION FOR THEM
July 16, 2008 1:47 PM
Anonymous Anonymous said...
It is a shame that at 66 yeARS OF AGE IF I DIDN'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT COMPUTER I WOULDN'T BE ABLE TO TRAVEL BY AIR BEACAUSE THERE IS NO PHONE # AVAILABE TO CALL THAT I COULD FIND TO ASK QUESTION AS TO WHAT i CAN BRING IN MY SUITCASE AS FAR AS MEDDICATION AND NON-MEDICINE THAT I TAKE WITH OUT A PRESCRPTION FOR THEM
July 16, 2008 1:47 PM
I'm not sure what you are asking here sir or ma'am. Medication is allowed through screening. Liquids, lotions, gels, aerosols over 3.4 oz aren't allowed unless there is a medical reason or for infants and young children. The 311 rules have been in effect for almost 2 years and they really aren't that difficult to understand and follow.
July 17, 2008 12:11 PM
RB said ---- This is nothing less than a personal attack by Glen on the whole U.S. Navy. It is inappropriate and in poor taste. To disparage the service men and women of the U.S. Navy is certainly an indication of a less than professional member of the TSA.
RB --- Get a life. I'm in the Navy and I certainly am not offended. Please don't speak for all of us because you don't know of what you speak. You know the point he was trying to make and no offense seemed intended. Perhaps you fall into that category of oversensitive Americans that we are all beginning to despise more and more. Isn't there a more important issue than this? If not, you really must get a life. Oh, and how do you know he referred to American sailors? Guess it hit a little too close to home and has some truth to it. Keep up the good work TSA.
July 18, 2008 9:29 AM
Well, My feedback has to do with an incident at IAD on 7/8. I got selected for addition screening and got to stand in the glass booth and watch a TSA agent place the grey bin with my laptop in it on the top of a stack of 2~3 other bins with half of it hanging over the table. Then the inevitable happened, the bin toppled to the ground, and like buttered toast, the bin was upside down and my laptop hit the ground with the bin on top of it. Now my hard drive is toast and I'm looking for the claims website that was printed on the card given to me by the supervising agent, but it looks like it doesn't exist! www.tsacliams.org, someone should fix that, or print the right address on these cards.
July 19, 2008 12:22 PM
Michael,
Sorry to hear about your laptop. The correct url is: Click Here>
If you'd like to speak with a customer support manager at IAD, let me know via a blog comment and I'll set it up. I'll need your e-mail to set it up. I won't publish your private info.
Bob
EoS Blog Team
July 19, 2008 1:00 PM
I can't find another place to express my frustration, so I'll try this. On July 19 I flew from PDX to ANC and my bags went through CTX 5 at about 8pm. I had made blueberry syrup and very carefully wrapped individual bottles of it in paper towel and tied grocery bags tightly around each bottle. The bottles were placed in a cardboard box which was wrapped in newspaper and another grocery bag tightly knotted, because I was concerned about leakage of blueberry syrup onto clothes in the suitcase. When I opened my suitcase after the flight, the outer grocery bag was cut open, the box was open and the bags containing two of the bottles of syrup were cut open. Fortunately, no syrup had leaked, but it could have. I understand if TSA feels it is necessary to inspect something, but I don't understand its leaving something so carefully wrapped for an obvious purpose unwrapped after inspection. Doesn't TSA have tape available?
July 22, 2008 1:58 PM
One important airport is missing from your list and that is Fort Lauderdale. It has been eight months but our experience flying out of Ft Lauderdale to Bogota Colombia was one I will not soon forget. It was a Saturday in December. Most of the passengers were understandably Hispanic. The TSA people were rude, abusive and on several occasions made racist comments. They yelled at passengers constantly and attempted to rush them them through. No one was spared the yelling and taunting, including seniors and children. In fact we heard the yelling before we even entered the screening room. At one point, I tried to asked a question and I got about half word out of my mouth wneh the TSA officer yelled at me "come on, move it!". I tried again to ask a question. He would not permit me to ask a question. On officer jokingly yelled at abother officer "hey maybe you should tell 'em in Spanish" in a mocking manner aimed at the mostly Hispanic passengers.
Can someone explain to me how this treatment protects our country and the flying public?
BTW, I did complain in an e-mail to both the TSA and Homeland Security. I received no response.
July 23, 2008 11:58 AM
More bad news for the TSA image....
July 23, 2008 4:07 PM
i just read the article on pass. it is a farse. as a former tso i know pass doesnt work. during my time with tsa the biggest moral killer was without a doubt pass =( these officers deserve better for what they have to put up with from the public, and thier own management.
July 23, 2008 10:01 PM
As an airline employee I can fly free. But because of all the hassels incurred with flying in the US I no longer fly in country but I do fly non-stop from another country back to the US without a problem. It was hard to have to get to the border and then catch a flight but I had reached my limit.
It is really says something that I need to go outside US to get respectful treatment!
July 24, 2008 12:36 AM
Stan said in part...."Can someone explain to me how this treatment protects our country and the flying public?
BTW, I did complain in an e-mail to both the TSA and Homeland Security. I received no response."
July 23, 2008 11:58 AM
Stan, why would you get a response when you received the normal level of service from the "highly trained TSO Professionals"?
Until TSA understands they have a problem no corrective action will be taken.
The current TSA leadership, and I use that word loosely, does not have the skills to recognize the faults within the agency.
All is well, no change needed.
July 24, 2008 2:17 PM
My husband has had two hip replacements. Obviously he sets off the metal detector. My concern is with his items on the x-ray belt. We usually carry on bags and it is a hastle for me to have to retreive two carryons, coats, shoes, purse, etc. If he travel alone, who will be responsible for securing his possessions? If someone has to be "wanded" then an agent should retreive the person's articles and bring them to where he is. Someone could easily walk off with his iPod or something. Who will replace them, the TSA?
July 24, 2008 3:09 PM
Just what is valid Government ID, please brief your staff better!
On Saturday, July 26th around 12;15p I was using the TSA fast track lane to clear security for my United flight to Denver. As a First Class passenger, as well as elite Mileage Plus cardholder, I appreciated the availability of this service at PDX. However, what I did not appreciate was how I was treated by your agent when I presented my boarding pass and my NEXUS card, the latter being used as a valid piece of government-issued personal identification.
The gentleman handed it back to me saying “What is this?” and when I told him, he said “I know what it is. But we don’t use that card here at PDX.” I said basically, it was a piece of US government-issued ID and that I was using it under what I believed to be the conditions set out by TSA. I have been using my NEXUS card for the past year, and before that my CANPASS card, as acceptable identification for airport security and airline check in. This was the first time that I was ever challenged and denied its use at a US airport, including many small terminals in cities like Louisville and Buffalo.
As I always travel with my Canadian passport, I handed that to your agent and he then proceeded to inspect that document with his magnifying eye piece as if it was a fake! This after rejecting a US-government issued secure travel document that required an extensive security screening procedure to obtain. And after letting the previous two passengers through with state driver’s licenses that are one of the least secure forms of personal ID in circulation!
Just to confirm that I was in the right with respect to the acceptance of my NEXUS card, I checked the TSA website and there quite clearly stated was – with photo example – the NEXUS card. Can someone in charge at PDX please print out this page and pass it along to your agent who was on duty that day. (BTW my NEXUS card was issued by the US government and is not a Canadian government issued ID card.)
Both the attitude of your agent, and his ignorance of your own rules -- and he is servicing the most frequent travelers at the airport -- only serves to lower the public's image of your agency and its disdain for the people they supposedly serve.
A Canadian frequent traveler
July 27, 2008 12:56 PM
TSA needs a way to ensure that a passenger's personal belongings are not stolen off the conveyer belt after screening while the passenger is being hand-screened with the wand. People with artificial knees, hips, and other joints are always manually screened, but often have to wait until a wand is found and a screener available. Meanwhile, laptop computers, cameras, and other valuables sit unattended and vulnerable to thieves at the end of the conveyor belt, until additional sceening is completed, often out of view of their owner.
July 27, 2008 1:27 PM
Wanted to share an experience I had on June 26, 2008 somewhere between Raleigh-Durham Airport in NC and Jacksonville Airport in Jacksonville, FL. I checked my bag curbside at RDU about 2 hours before my 12:55 flight. When I opened the bag at my hotel about 5 that evening, I found that someone had opened my bag and sprayed an oily substance on the top. The oil (baby oil?) penetrated only the skirt on top of my bag--thank goodness! I assumed vandalism by a disgruntled TSA employee. My mom who is a cleaning maven was able to remove most of the substance using a dish soap full strength. While I am in the process of filing a claim and I have reported the incident to TSA security, I wanted to share this to see if anyone else has had a similar experience. If our liquids pose a threat in our carry-on luggage, then might liquids like this also pose a threat in the checked baggage? I don't know, just asking.
July 28, 2008 7:10 PM
KUDOS to TSA. I am an over 60 female with a knee replacement. I try to follow all the rules -- I dress appropriately, don't attempt to bring prohibited items on an aircraft, and always try to be pleasant and compliant. I have posted several complaints about the (what I considered to be) ridiculous over the top personal search because of my "metal knee". When I flew last week, lo and behold, TSA had changed its policy and it is now VERY apropriate. I should be pulled out, the issue of my knee should be resolved from a security standpoint -- and it was -- in an appropriate manner. Thank you TSA for listening and responding!
July 29, 2008 11:03 AM
I recently flew to San Diego from Honolulu. I went through all the checks and scanners at Honolulu. While sitting at the gate I noticed there were doors nearby directly to the outside, with traffic outside. It would be simplicity itself for someone to pass a carry-on bag through the doors containing guns, a bomb, anything whatsoever.
This seems incredible but I went in and out twice simply because i couldn't believe it.
Quite a contrast to the time I had a disposable cigarette lighter confiscated on my way OUT of Atlanta airport AFTER the flight!
July 29, 2008 3:59 PM
"If Tyranny and Oppression come to this land, it will be in the guise of fighting a foreign enemy."
James Madison
July 30, 2008 5:55 PM
Only terrorists or terrorist supporters dislike TSA. We know what you are plotting. Stay off of this blog.
July 31, 2008 3:25 AM
People just dont like to be screened. Take the TSA away and lets see what happens. Lets see how many people regret ever talking bad about them. People always want to get into the secure area without some kind of process. If you dont want to play the game just drive. We will not let terrorists win because of spoiled Americans. Tsa is even starting to catch more drug runners than the police do. Who attempts to carry six bags of ecstacy through a checkpoint? Doesnt matter anymore. TSA got him!!!
July 31, 2008 3:37 AM
Like most Americans i'm glad that there is extra security,but in my recent travels im dissapointed with the TSA,my bag was one of those picked for a random inspection,which is fine,but when I recovered my bag from the belt the zipper was open,in my bag I had my ipod,camera,perfume and other items that have a heafty price tag,I belive the least the TSA can do is use a stupid turkey tie to secure peoples belongings. Im also am the proud owner of a prosthetic knee so of course I beeped going through the metal detector,at that time I informed the TSA employee about my prosthetic, then I was wanded and subjected to a pat down because my underwire beeped I mean come on bras & underwire who doesnt know about this combination.I was rather embaressed and disappointed.
July 31, 2008 9:50 AM
Anonymous said...
Only terrorists or terrorist supporters dislike TSA. We know what you are plotting. Stay off of this blog.
...................................
Let me see if I understand what you said;
People who insist that the government complies with the constitution are terrorist.
People who insist that the govenment complies with the laws of the land are terrorist.
People who wish to exercise their constitutional rights are terrorist.
I feel sorry for you!
July 31, 2008 9:56 AM
I'm new to this forum and I have read quite a bit what is being said about airport security. I think it's easy to whine and cry about issues regarding security but what's not easy, is comming up with an acceptable solution to the problem. My boss would tell us (employees) to make sure we had a solution attached to any issues we brought to the table. It amazes me how people can take airport security for granted these days. Try fying out of Haiti some day... security? what security? Anyboby can whine and complain about things... my little toddlers a pro at that.
July 31, 2008 4:19 PM
We did a little trip in the USA and we had about 5 flights and there were ssss on every single ticket no matter what time, no matter which one of us it was there always. I agree with putting your shoes off and through x-ray machine but they always did something to them because I had ssss.
I don't really know why we had ssss but i think it was because we were strangers.
August 1, 2008 6:50 AM
Today is August 2nd and the announcement that on the 1st that all airports nationwide would be part of the Got Feedback comments area. Obviously someone is behind the power curve yet again and this announcement has gone ahead of the implementation.
MSO TSO
August 1, 2008 9:50 AM
I see I jumped the gun and got the dates wrong. I apologize to the blog operators. The got feedback link is working now for all airports. I just logged on and saw the announcement and then clicked on the map. Thanks for getting this up and operating folks. Mea Culpa.
MSO Tso
August 2, 2008 1:03 AM
Links to this post:
Create a Link
<< Home