Gripes & Grins
Have a TSA experience that you want to share? This is the blog post to share your TSA experiences -- both the good or the bad.
posted by Neil at
9:03 AM
Terrorists Evolve. Threats Evolve. Security Must Stay Ahead. You Play A Part.
Have a TSA experience that you want to share? This is the blog post to share your TSA experiences -- both the good or the bad.
posted by Neil at
9:03 AM
406 Comments:
First comment I have, BDO's as you call them need to be plainclothed, or with an identifying band. There is nothing worse for your image than having 8 screeners struggling on two lines with miles of passengers, while 4 more seem to be standing there doing nothing but trying to intimidate people into appearing nervous. Instead, it just makes 1/3 of the workforce look completely useless.
January 31, 2008 3:37 PM
Hi there: I am confused as to why you have to show your passport or ID at 3 stages during clearing security ? I can understand that they check it as you enter the line. But, why again before you are directed to a machine and then again before you can put your stuff in the xray machine?
Thanks for answering this question.
January 31, 2008 3:41 PM
The screeners at PHL located at concourses B and C have to be the worst. Early in the morning they are half asleep and cranky. Some have the "Big Man on Campus" syndrome. Suggest raising the salary to draw a better quality of screener.
January 31, 2008 3:45 PM
Here's a grin about the blog. I just left a comment about having sections for shoes, liquids, etc. Posted my comment, went back to the home blog page ... and there they were!
I guess I just got ahead of the plan.
January 31, 2008 3:47 PM
In Europe when I go through security someone helps me with my lap top and other electronic devices. In the US all I get are a bunch TSA representative barking out orders while standing around looking mad.
January 31, 2008 3:47 PM
I think my first post either got rejected for term I used or because it came during the flood of comments you got just as you shut down that one topic and revamped…here it is again because it’s important to me:
This has been mentioned at least once, but I wanted to second it and reiterate it: Why can't something be worked out so that ALL federal law enforcement employees with security clearances, background investigations, polygraphs, etc. be given some special consideration and a realization made that their credentials (yes, the flip open "I'm with the government I'm here to help" kind) actually mean something. It's ridiculous when I'm traveling in business attire with my creds and security badges (that get me in to places just as critical and sensitive as an airport), and I get secondary screened because I made a last minute change to get an earlier flight. I can’t even be given some professional courtesy to let me leave my suit jacket on instead of crumpling it up to put in a dirty plastic bin that people put their shoes in. And the screeners get this stupid fiendish grin when they know they’ve won and I have to do whatever they say. Meanwhile, some kid that got a job a throwing baggage or something diddy-bobs past with is inappropriate unprofessional attire and his headphones around his neck and flashes his badge, not even close enough or long enough for the person to actually check it and goes right through. I’m not angry or chip on my shoulder because this happened once. I’m a frequent flyer and it’s consistent.
And maybe…just maybe…I’d be even less aggravated about it if so many TSA screeners weren’t jerks. Many…not all, I’ll give you that, but many simply do not care about people. Everyone is apparently a nuisance and/or nefarious. Hey…all those fine American travelers are taxpayers…you’re paid with tax money…you work for these people, you don’t rule them. You…work…for…them! If you’re being a jerk because you don’t like dealing with your fellow Americans…quit…don’t like the job, too boring, too demanding…quit. I know it’s probably just too tough to give up such a sweet gig being a federal employee mooching off the people you can’t muster some common decency for. If you’re a jerk because you like being a jerk and the power you have…you should be fired. The TSA pre-employment screening process should screen out people who are itching to be power tripping jerks, but obviously it doesn’t always work.
January 31, 2008 3:49 PM
Hi! I read almost all the past gripes about TSA and I felt a lot of anger. I travel quite frquently and follow the rules, take of my shoes etc.. I do it with a smile. I say hello and I thank them. I have had some rude airport staff before you get up to the TSA. In phoenix they have booties you can wear, but I noticed people did not used them. Thanks for doing what you feel you have to do in order to keep us safe and putting up with all the angry people too:)
Just a frequent traveler, my smile gets me far!
January 31, 2008 3:49 PM
I've stood in some horrible lines at SMF (Sacramento, CA). As if TSA has no clue about flight schedules and how to plan for surges around common departure times. Perhaps TSA and the airlines should be working more closely together. Certainly the airlines should know how many passengers are moving through their block of gates.
I know it's not as easy as staffing for lunch at McDonald's, but watching the pattern for a couple of weeks and adding extra people over holidays and other known busy times could be improved.
January 31, 2008 3:52 PM
Why does the TSA run special low delay inspection lines for first class airline passengers? Since when is one taxpayer entitled to discriminatory treatment and special service from a government agency?
January 31, 2008 3:54 PM
Looking for a suggestion: I love to travel with my Leatherman multi-tool. It is unfortunately a prohibited item on airlines and therefore must be checked, which I completely understand. However, when you check items like this (or cash, jewelry, digital cameras, etc.) and have an hour or so layover in say...Chicago, your beloved item is no longer safely stowed in your luggage. I have used a luggage lock before only to have it sheared off (and my money stolen...I was too young to think that people might take advantage of one's layover) by the time I picked up my bag from the claim area. Any suggestions on how to travel with items that must be checked AND not get robbed of them?
January 31, 2008 3:55 PM
ive only flown a few times in the past three years, only alaska air lines, wonderful trips...their *bus* type of flight, direct, nonstop Portland OR to Ontario, CA and back...wonderful...couple cups of complimentary ale, and three hrs later, pow, im there...sweet people, each time, wonderful memorable experiences considering a less than wonderful reason for traveling...i wish all had my experiences, and i hope all my future trips are as smooth...
granny
January 31, 2008 3:56 PM
I'm a 63 yr old woman, and I do NOT appreciate the TSA woman in West Palm Beach who felt it necessary to reach down inside the front of my slacks. How embarrassing!
January 31, 2008 3:57 PM
I have had generally good experiences with TSA, except for long lines at some (but not all) airports. Mostly these seem to be the result of metal detectors and baggage x-rays that are not staffed, leading to everyone trying to squeeze through too few stations.
I do understand that lots of folks have had worse experiences than I, and that there are inconsistencies that otta get fixed. BUT - remember that the security situation and intelligence about our foes changes frequently. If we were to find out that Al-Qaida has figured out how to blow up an airplane with an iPod, you better believe that iPods would be banned pronto.
BUT, if you have problems with TSA, do you remember the way it used to be? When airlines ran the security inspection and they had a very lowest-cost approach, paying minimum wage to inspectors? Do you remember that many of the inspectors could barely speak English and some turned out to be illegal aliens? Was the fox out guarding the henhouse?
TSA needs improvement, probably more resources, but it also needs our support to make it a better-functioning organization.
January 31, 2008 3:58 PM
Something has to be done for those of us with artificial joint or other replacements or metal in our bodies permanently. I am tired of having to stand in the line knowing that I will have to be scanned. I cannot volunteer to be scanned, so it takes even longer before I can get to my gate. At the very least, let me volunteer to be scanned since I have a replacement knee.
January 31, 2008 3:58 PM
In October of '05 my fiance and I were at O'Hare going though security with United. Never have I seen individuals be so utterly rude to all sorts of people. They were yelling at people old enough to be my great grand parents who truly didn't know what to do. This was not the only time I have seen such rudeness. I have since flown on 4 different trips and each time the TSA screeners are yelling. This is not necessary. While I understand many of these TSA workers are not well educated (taking into consideration our nation's security they should have at least a high school degree which I am sure these TSA workers do not have and better training)the should be tought to be thoughtful, understanding, respectful but I guess that goes back to how they were brought up.
January 31, 2008 3:59 PM
Note that I think most of the comments have probably been deleted by the moderator.
If citizens MUST tolerate this ridiculous group, at least make it a private-based organization. Note that the San Francisco private group finds 80% more fake bombs and such upon screening than almost ANY of the other cities w/ public run TSA Orgs.
January 31, 2008 3:59 PM
I think generally that the TSA does a good job of running security, but it annoys me to see the complete lack of courtesy with passengers. There isn't even the pretense of being friendly or helpful when you ask questions. It has become apparent that this is truly a government agency because these people act like lifers instead of employees of the tax payer. There are many instances were lines are long and these lifers are too busy socializing to do their jobs, and we suffer. Please make the trains run on time as the saying goes. If you cannot train them to be courteous and focus on the job at hand, fire them. At least when the airlines were running the checkpoints they allowed and encouraged honest feedback. These lifers act as if saying anything to them is a federal offense. A complaint to a supervisor almost always results in unnecessary secondary screening. The system is poorly managed and out of control Take the power away from these lifers, most of which couldn't be successful at Jiffy Lube or Walmart and recognize the traveling public deserves better.
Thanks for the blog. This is great and very much appreciated.
January 31, 2008 4:00 PM
Why is it that when I accompany my son through security when he flies alone (I'm just dropping him of at the gate) my gate-pass is always stamped "SSS" meaning full security check in terminal 2 of LAX but not terminal 5. Even the TSA guys at the security checkpoint have expressed their surprise. They blame it on the airline, whereas the airline claims it's the TSA flagging the gate-pass.
Who decides this and why?
January 31, 2008 4:01 PM
I sat beside a guy that was at least 325lbs on a flight recently from Denver to Chicago O'Hare. Airlines really need to enforce the weight limit when flying. At least enforce the two seat purchase for those over 300lbs. If it was a 20 min flight it would not have been a problem. But sitting beside this cow for 1:45 minutes was over the top.
Stephen Squibb
January 31, 2008 4:01 PM
I recently made a trip from Atlanta, GA to Seattle, WA. On the return trip, the TSA folks took my laptop into a room and, about 10 minutes later, returned it to me. A few minutes after that, I opened it to discover the keyboard bezel was bent up on the left side. I turned it on and discovered at least one key was sticking because the password dialog was constantly filling with characters. It appeared that they had tried to remove the keyboard, for whatever reason, and totally ruined my computer in the process. It cost me USD 295.50 (for a new keyboard and labor) to get it fixed.
The Moral of My Story: Turn your laptop on and make sure it works as soon as they finish inspecting it.
January 31, 2008 4:01 PM
You guys are incredibly ineffective. My PEPPER SPRAY gets through on my key chain each and every single time but I've lost several hundred dollars worth of skincare items over the years since this government mandate began.
Don't you think if someone wanted to blow something up the trash can right in front of everyone, where you toss my lip cream, would be 'ideal'?
Innane...
January 31, 2008 4:01 PM
When ever I enter the Security Check Point at airports around the country I see evidence that there are dozens of cameras watching every move of the traveling public.
In fact, it seems that there are survelance cameras every where we go these days and it certainly isn't uncommon to have employees video taped while on the job.
Yet, when I asked to see the survelance tapes of TSA Screeners checking my baggage after items were stolen from my checked baggage I was advised by TSA that there are no survelance cameras of employees checking bags and therefore there are no tapes.
Of course, TSA had to pay up for the stolen goods.
Why are there no survelance tapes of TSA employees at "work"?
January 31, 2008 4:03 PM
Okay, so I know that I have a really cute dog, but shouldn't the security people keep their eyes on the baggage? I travel with my small dog quite frequently. Most of the time, when I take him out of his bag, at LEAST 1 TSA person completely spaces out and comes to play with him. In the mean time, there are bags going through the x-ray machines and people walking through metal detectors while these goofs are playing with my dog! I know he is cute, but perhaps TSA officers could use some training in impulse restraint.
January 31, 2008 4:03 PM
I just flew from WI to St Kitts via Chicago and my luggage was lost. When it arrived a day later than I, I opened it and found one of the TSA inspection notices inside. Then I noticed that you folks took out 1/3 of my shampoo and 3/4 of my hair conditioner. Before leaving, I got leaki proof bottles of about 8 oz each and put these hair products in them. I did this so that they would not leak. They didn't leak but you poured out most of my products. You have nerve! This was mine and not yours to dispose of as you saw fit. If you need to inspect fotr a bomb or whatever, you could have taken a few spoonsful. I am so ticked! I don't have enough for my trip. This is an abuse of power and totally not necessary! On my last trip, I had 102ml. of shampoo in my carry on which you abusive people took and threw away. 2 mls over the limit is stupidily silly totake away. That is why onb this trip I packed the stuff in my luggage and put it in those bottles which were4 not the original and I suspect that you thought they were suspicious and needed to dump my stuff out. Shame on you.
January 31, 2008 4:04 PM
In Detroit I was shocked to discover my wallet and purse being searched without being notified, advised or given the opportunity to observe. When I said I thought I was supposed to be notified about that before it happens, I was told "we can search anything, anytime". I'm sure that's not within TSA's policy.
In Montana a screener took my purse off the table and put it in the x-ray machine while I was getting my laptop out of the bag. I tried to get my purse back but was rudely informed that I can't change my mind after I put it on the x-ray belt. But the screener put my purse on the x-ray belt, not me! I have a specific order I want my belongings going into the x-ray (shoes, bag, laptop and then purse). I want to go into the walk through when my purse enters the x-ray tunnel and be waiting for it to come out thus eliminating risk of theft on either end. Again, TSA taking my purse from me and intentionally putting my property at risk!
January 31, 2008 4:04 PM
There is lterally hundreds of pounds of drugs ad weapons walking aboard aircraft each day internally as they do at our borders. What is the TSA going to do whn it is determined an explosion or fire was started aboard an aircraft that way? Pelvic and anal exams for eveyone?
January 31, 2008 4:06 PM
As a retired Military (23 years) plus 15 (US Gov't-Law & Enforcement Off), I find the attitude of the TSA personnel I passed through at the Philadelphia airport to be the rudest of any I have ever encountered. Even as a Imm Off, courtesy in dealing with people no matter the situation calls for common sense in a modulated tone of understanding not yelling, bringing frustration to your job or an attitude of disgust. Peope respond better to kindness even when pressured.
January 31, 2008 4:06 PM
Thanks for starting a blog. We used to fly to Michigan twice a year to visit my in-laws. Thanks to the TSA, I no longer have to do that because flying has become too much of a scary hassle. I figure you guys have saved me over $3000 in travel costs over the last couple years. Better still, I don't have to hear from my father-in-law about how I should go to church more often. Relatedly, I should give thanks to the TSA for allowing me to rediscover my home state of Oregon as all of my vacations are spent within driving distance. Turns out, I live in a beautiful state with a rich cultural heritage. I'll see you all at the old-time fiddler's contest in Sumpter, Oregon this September!
January 31, 2008 4:06 PM
On my way to Miami from La Guardia airport I (a female) was horrified to have a male screener frisk me opposed to one of the woman screeners. I filed a complaint with the TSA, but never received a response.
January 31, 2008 4:07 PM
I traveled from Seatac on Christmas day and it was a wonderful experience. I traveled back on New Years Day from Houston and that was quite an experience. We had our plastic bins loaded and on the rollers. There was a man in front of me in the same situation. He had been scanned and I was on my way through. This employee started to yell at us and scold us like we were children. She yelled "Now who do you think is going to push those bins through?" At Seatac the employees did it after we got them to the rollers. I guess in Houston on holidays the employees get paid time and a half to yell at travelers to do everything themselves. There was the employee sitting on a stool yelling at all of us and the other employees were standing around talking and laughing with each other. I wish we would take security seriously or not have it.
January 31, 2008 4:10 PM
I'm sick of people bitching about shoes and liquids. These rules are in place for a reason: to protect YOU. If you don't want to comply, take another mode of transportation.
January 31, 2008 4:11 PM
Last year we were returning from Anchorage, AK to our home in upstate NY. The plane we were to depart Anchorage on was delayed enough so that the airline had to re-book us with another airline. All of a sudden our round-trip ticket became a one-way and that flagged security for more stringent checking and unnecessary delays. I say unnecessary because I am certain this is fairly frequent. There ought to be a way to distinguish between a customer arranged one-way versus an airline necessitated one. It would aggravate fewer people and would cut down on wasted time and effort by security personnel.
January 31, 2008 4:12 PM
Do people employed by the TSA realize they are continually engaged in warrantless searches (and, not uncommonly, seizures)? The entire process is illegal, is it not? Is it made legal by the fact the federal government pays screeners to engage in the act? Here's the fourth amendment, for you consideration: "The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized." Violation of this very explicit federal government restriction is a fundamental flaw in the TSA organization, not to mention the rude, incompetent behavior of screeners. I don't believe you have the integrity to reply to this comment, either, by the way.
January 31, 2008 4:12 PM
I travel many times a year, and every single time the TSA steals items out of my bag. I have even resorted to putting the TSA regulations on the top of the bag, showing what is allowed in checked luggage, but still I have my TSA Approved lock stolen, ( cut off I imagine, even though the TSA has a key to open it) and my cigars and cutters, and lighters are always stolen. even when they are approved and in special cases.
Why does this happen? nobody has access to the bags but Airline personel. why does this always happen?
January 31, 2008 4:12 PM
I sat beside an over weight, actually very over weight 325lbs guy, on a Unitied flight from Denver to Chicago O'Hare, Row 19. Airlines need to enforce the over Weight limit. Or at least enforce the two seat rule. The flight was full so no seat was availible to change seats. It was a 1:45 minute flight. Had it been a 20 minute flight it would not have been a problem. Can you Please enforce the two seat limit for cows over 300lbs. Place a seat in the check in area and if someone can NOT fit in that seat and has bulges hanging over the seat require a two seat purchase. It was very uncomfortable for 2 hours. Thank you!
thank you
January 31, 2008 4:12 PM
The tsa's efforts to screen passenger would be more credible if you could show some reasonable evidence that all this screening has prevented any terrorist acts.
Because there were no terrorist acts in flight in the U.S. during the history of commercial aviation before 9/11, it is not credible to cite the absence of such attacks since 9/11 as evidence of efficacy.
In the meantime, tsa passenger screening is costing billions of dollars annually in direct costs, and probably tens of billions in wasted time and unnecessary aggravation of the traveling public.
Where's the cost-benefit analysis?
January 31, 2008 4:13 PM
I would like to know why my 84 year old mother in a wheelchair(42 year survior of Breast cancer) one hip replacesd, Both knees the size of basketballs always has to get out of the wheelchair for a pat down and wond going over. She has to lean on a counter or wall so as not to fall down. Yet I walk thru.
January 31, 2008 4:13 PM
I'm an international business traveler (17 yrs worth, ave. of 150K m/p/yr) that's endured the TSA system since day one. I am curious why every single time we go through security at ORD, ATL, JFK, wherever - we have to submit to the same procedure, over and over. Also, why is it taking so long to implement the "fast-track" security for us very frequent business travelers? We just want to get to work - and then, REALLY want to get home with minimal fuss.
January 31, 2008 4:14 PM
never would i tell the tsa how to go about doing their job. it is an important job and must be done carefully. it is my believe that your personal can do their daily duties with firmness but along with that should always remain a touch of humanity and personality. travel today is not fun anymore for anyone.most of the problems in line stem from us people ourselves not following simple orders, but many times the rules of the game change from location to location. it never hurts to put a smile on your faces, that goes a long way when it comes to cooperation.the worst i have seen has been at the baltimore location by far, sad i must say.we all need to work together for our safety sake and need to be more patient but meeting the public half way with a more friendly attitude would go a long ways.this is coming from a retired usps worker.but in our small town we must try to put our best foot forward and make a solid attempt to get along. too many people put on a uniform and they get high on themselves with authority. always remember that you have a job and for many today they would be more then glad to trade places with you in order to provide for their family. so be tough , but blend it with a little humanity.thank you for listening
January 31, 2008 4:16 PM
Gripe - after a peaceful flight back to the USA from Japan, land at SFO to transfer to a flight home to Chicago.
The "Welcome to America" is a TSA screener reciting a list of "banned items" at the TOP OF HIS LUNGS for about 15 minutes, while people in line had to listen to his ranting, which also included complaints about the lack of TSA vacation time.
"Welcome home" indeed!
January 31, 2008 4:16 PM
I still want to know about the express lane for 1st class passengers. I can understand why an airline’s customers, who pay more, should expect better service – FROM THE AIRLINE. But why should they get better service from the TSA, who are paid for by EVERYONES tax dollars? Not only is this unfair, it creates at least the impression of collusion between the airline AND the TSA. A government agency can’t protect BOTH the business interests of an airline, as well as passenger safety, without a very real conflict of interest. So… how about it, TSA,… are you taking kickbacks from the airlines, OR are you applying everyone’s tax dollars to benefit a select few.
January 31, 2008 4:16 PM
Why does all our newfound security measures feel simply like window dressing to make people “feel” better as opposed to doing anything stopping terrorism.
I cannot disagree more with how our country has approached improved airline security. Our solution is to throw money away on better x-ray/bomb sniffing to find bombs instead of looking for Terrorists. From a basic perspective, terrorists tend to be rather larger than bombs and harder to hide in luggage.
Why we have not approached our long time ally, Israel to help find a solution is absurd. No country has had to deal with more threats of terrorism for decades than Israel. If anyone has ever flown El Al, they can describe their highly effective method of finding terrorists (not bombs).
How do they do it? Drum roll please… they talk to you. Instead of wasting money on machines, invest in education, training and better paid employees to talk to every passenger as they wait to check in. In the El Al line, a rather friendly, and clearly intelligent employee with a PDA asks you a series of on the fly questions about your trip: where you’re going, why you know Hebrew (if you do, they’ll start speaking in Hebrew), where you’re staying, etc. This isn’t a process that can be standardized, it’s not even about the questions they ask, it’s about how you answer. If you’re lying they’ll likely find a hole in your story or realize you’re have something to hide. Then it might be worth taking a look at your bag/luggage as opposed to scanning at random.
Maybe it’s bullsh%t political correctness and fear of “racial profiling” that prevents us from learning from what actually works, but in a time where we seem to constantly give up basic rights in the name of “safety”, the fact that we are too stupid to invest in intelligent human interaction to prevent terror is simply ignorant.
How much will this cost? Probably a bit, see http://www.acm.org/ubiquity/views/v5i34_kabay.html
But, how much have ticket prices gone up to pay for the arguably random and useless security measures that have been put in place in recent years? Could this additional cost be balanced with the privatization and removal of said useless measures (taking off my shoes and belt)?
Oh, and here's an idea, we have thousands and thousands of troops that will be coming back from Iraq (I hope at some point). Chances are they're already well trained to spot terrorists and will need jobs when they get back. They have security clearance, smart, etc. just like the ex-Israeli army workers at El Al. Let's not over estimate the minority of soldiers that will have to deal with PTSD which is a legitimate concern, but an approachable one.
January 31, 2008 4:22 PM
I have family that will not fly due to the TSA issues. I travel a lot and have trouble from time to time, but it is mainly at the larger airports where the issues reside. Lack of staff leads to long delays. Long enough to make a person who arrives over 2 hours early for the flight miss it. That is not a good thing, especially when it is a business flight.
Some TSA agents think that they are "God" and treat people very nasty. I see that in every airport, not just some. I know that the job is low pay and long hours, but raise the pay and get a better quality of people to work that job. Then maybe things might change.
January 31, 2008 4:22 PM
When is something going to be done to update the no fly list? Just seems absurd that it's based solely off of a name, a third grader could come up with a better system and I'm sure others already have.
January 31, 2008 4:23 PM
There are premium lines because TSA does not set up the line ... the airlines do. TSA is only responsible for the checkpoint itself where the equipment is and the ID check. The lines themselves are created by the airlines.
The airlines offer it as a perk to their premium travelers. If you want to use the line, become a premium traveler.
While I like to bag on TSA for the stupid things they do, this one isn't their fault.
January 31, 2008 4:23 PM
TSA stole my toothpaste at ACV. Because of a ridiculous policy banning any "liquids" more than 3 oz. in volume. First of all, I don't think that toothpaste is a liquid. Second, it's a reactionary policy based on false intelligence. My honest belief is that the policy is mainly in place for all those people who have to discard their own water bottles, but can then *buy* another water bottle, containing the exact same tap water, just on the other side of the security checkpoint. Ridiculous!!! Or perhaps worse than ridiculous... how 'bout fascist?
January 31, 2008 4:25 PM
I would like an explanation why the TSA believes checking IDs enhances security. Terrorists could easily obtain valid ID; furthermore, the ID check could easily be circumvented by using any combination of fake boarding passes and/or fake ID. Plus, people are allowed to fly without ID anyway, so what's the point.
In addition, the "No-fly list" is an unAmerican mess and should be abolished.
January 31, 2008 4:31 PM
I am sorry to hear stories about TSA staff yelling and being rude. Perhaps it relates to the general temperment of the population in those areas. I have flown a few times in the last few years in and out of several airports in the southeastern united states and have always been treated with at least courtesy and often smiles and welcoming attitudes.
January 31, 2008 4:32 PM
After the TSA damaged my personal laptop computer not once, only on the way there, but twice, on the way back as well, I decided to not fly with it. After filling out about 5 pages of TSA refund papers TWICE about 2 years ago, and never recieving response, money, or any notification at all, I have lost every single shred of hope for the TSA, and only hope to grudgingly tote my things through their "gauntlet" and get on my flight. I hate the TSA even though they make me safe. Sad but true.
January 31, 2008 4:33 PM
Why is it that my wife's tendonitis arm bands were the cause of her being shuffled off by security for heavy questioning? It was distressing to her and it almost made us late for our flight. These extra measures put in place by TSA are not only just an illusion of safety, they are downright insulting.
January 31, 2008 4:35 PM
I posted this before the separate entries were posted, so here it is again...
I truly don't believe that the TSA cares what the hoi polloi think. Their job isn't to make the traveling public secure so much as it is to make the traveling public feel secure so they'll continue to travel. Nevertheless, I'm posting in an attempt to get an answer on an issue that really scares me: Airport screening managers can act in a totally arbitrary and capricious manner and deny people the ability to travel by air, with no recourse whatsoever.
I make my living as a computer consultant. My customers are nationwide, and I have to be able to get there quickly. If I don't fly, I don't work. I have no choice in the matter, despite the standard TSA response of "you have a choice not to fly, so this screening is voluntary".
I got so tired of getting groped by TSA screeners with no explanation of what they were doing - they'd just pull me aside and start running their hands over my body - that I started going through the security checkpoints wearing nothing but spandex. Most of the time, I got chuckles or nods, but the checkpoint managers at Greensboro, NC and Columbus, OH both told me they'd refuse to allow me through the checkpoint if I did it again - and the guy at Columbus went so far as to call the cops, just because he was offended! (They told him I was doing absolutely nothing illegal.)
When I sent a letter to Kip Hawley about the guy in Greensboro, I got a reply from a middle manager saying that I shouldn't do that any more, and completely failing to address my larger concerns.
I didn't even bother complaining about the guy in Columbus. What's the point? After his arbitrary, capricious action, I stopped doing it, because I was scared of losing my job by not being able to travel any more.
Not once did anyone bother to try to explain just why they thought my clothing was a problem. There was certainly no justification offered as to how I was doing anything to impede the security process; I contend that I was making the screeners' jobs easier, by making it obvious to them that I was carrying nothing on my person.
The TSA behaves as though they're above the law and the Constitution, and are totally unaccountable to the average traveler. I don't expect to get an explanation, but it would be nice...
January 31, 2008 4:38 PM
I watched you guys "wand" thee old ladies so far this year in my travels.
Fail^3
January 31, 2008 4:39 PM
Oh, and one more thing. Exforce some dress codes once in a while for your employees. I saw one employee in JFK wearing a doo-rag and a yankees cap cocked to the side. His white shirt was untucked and his pants were about to fall down around his Timberlands. What a joke! Your organization is a disgrace. Maybe he had to "keep it real", but if he can't show some professionalism, he should keep it real back on 'da skreets, without my taxes paying his salary and benefits.
January 31, 2008 4:40 PM
I've generally had okay experiences with the TSA workers in my home airport, CLE, however, in my travels elsewhere I have had several trips through security that still stick in my head every time I go to an airport.
In one instance, having just come back from an 18 hour international flight into O'Hare, being somewhat out of it on account of jet lag and fatigue, I was confronted with a screener who embarrassed me in front of the entire line of people as I was reentering the airport from customs. I had just put my backpack onto the rollers to go into the X-ray, and was walking towards the metal detector. However, the TSA worker told me "You can't go through." I asked why, and he said "You're forgetting something." I asked again, and, he did not reply. I looked around trying to figure out why I couldn't go through, but had no clue. The people behind me in line began to look visibly annoyed at the wait. Finally, I noticed that the X-ray conveyor had not caught my backpack enough to pull it in. Perhaps, had I been more conscious, I would have noticed it, but, after a long flight I was just not thinking. As I pushed it in, the worker said very loudly "There you go, now that wasn't so hard, was it?" I felt very intimidated by him and very embarrassed in front of the entire line of people as he belittled me. After dealing with a rude customs agent, this was the final welcome from America after a long time abroad. After feeling intimidated in that way, I had no desire to push the issue and try and complain at the checkpoint. Since I had to make a connection, I was actually afraid that complaining and "making trouble" would result him making me miss the connection somehow.
I think that intimidation is the biggest issue that the TSA is facing at this point. I would rather be forced to take my shoes off and limit liquids if I were able to feel comfortable and unthreatened while walking through the checkpoint. I have a feeling that those two issues would not be so odious if TSA employees acted more respectfully.
This is not the case with every employee. I have met many nice workers who treated me with a lot of respect, but, sadly, it is that minority of employees who, when given power abuse it, that color the TSA in a terrible light.
I believe that, if the TSA is to still exist and enforce some of their more contentious policies, they should at least test their employees' ability to treat a passenger with respect as well.
Between the yelling of posted rules and belittling of paying travelers, the intimidation must stop for the TSA to remain viable.
January 31, 2008 4:40 PM
Wow where to begin?
Ok lets at least address the real problem.
Why do you have people gather in huge lines where any bomber could take us all out waiting to be checked????
You need to be checking the cars entering the air port. that way they may blow up a car or two. as it stands now they could take out thousands of people before they ever were screened. this isn't rocket science.
You are just setting up false security, while putting us all in harms way.
Take a step back and do the right thing.
-Glenn
January 31, 2008 4:43 PM
I recently traveled from JFK to Charlotte, NC and the TSA had inspected my checked baggage. When I arrived in Charlotte, I noticed the TSA sticker on the tag, but no notice had been left. When I opened my bag, the items inside were tossed about and the inside zipper was open with my cell phone charger hanging out. My $300 Canon digital camera, its charger and leather case were missing. I filed a claim with TSA, but it was denied. They're supposed to be checking our bags, but instead things go "missing". My concern (aside from someone stealing from my baggage that was supposed to be secure) is that if anyone can steal something out of the bag, then anyone can also put something, such as a device or bomb in the checked baggage as well. What is the purpose of screening the luggage if the TSA personnel is part of the problem?
January 31, 2008 4:46 PM
I've flown a few times through SAC and I have to say the TSA agents there make me want to drive or take a train. In Vegas the TSA seem polite and reasonable yet at SAC I see people who are at war with the passengers they serve. They bark out orders, treat people as inferior to them, and have the attitude of an army soldier who just caught Bin Laden.
I find the whole security theater annoying and the lines are horrible and the reaction to a shoe bomb or liquid rumor is excessive and over the top. The TSA is just using fear as an opportunity to take away freedoms. We are not fixing terrorism with this group, only making citizens mad and decreasing airline usage.
January 31, 2008 4:47 PM
Awhile ago in Orlando (MCO), I went through the ridiculously long line for security (which is to be expected, as it is a vacation destination filled with people who don't travel frequently), and got confused by the signs upon leaving the security area. I turned the wrong way and ended up heading back in the direction I'd come from - which I recognized about twelve steps into an empty corridor near the Disney store. I turned around to go back and was informed by a TSA employee that I couldn't move that way. I explained that she'd just watched me come that way; there was no one else in the hall at all. She said she didn't see me. This is somewhat frightening; one person walking down a hallway, and you don't even notice them? I didn't mind having to go back through the line; I'd made the mistake. But a little courtesy from the guard could have given me the opportunity to skip some of the line. My screener recognized me when I went back through, probably a good 100 people later. Shame on the other TSA employee for being absolutely, positively blind.
January 31, 2008 4:48 PM
I recently returned from a company trip to Idaho, for which 50 of us were coming from around the country to meet. Of the 50, no fewer than 5 of us had things stolen from our checked luggage. We weren't even traveling through the same cities and thus targeted by the same baggage screener!
Items stolen ranged from cheap jewelry to computer power cords to medications.
I don't mind the fact that sometimes someone has to go through my stuff as a security measure. I DO have a serious issue with dishonest employees and their five-finger discount.
January 31, 2008 4:49 PM
The last 3 times I've flown, my empty and open nalgene bottle has been taken and examined for residues, but my metal lockpicking kit with pocket knife in my backpack hasn't even been noticed. I feel no safer due to the action of the TSA. These were in LAX and Charlotte and Cincinatti.
January 31, 2008 4:50 PM
I have a medical condition that requires me to use a CPAP machine at night. Since I travel a lot I always take the machine as a carrier on. TSA requires me to take the machine out for screening. To do so I must pull out the hose and mask to access the machine. It's embarrasing to have everyone looking at me with all the equipment and wonder ups up with this guy. I thought that with HIPPA (another government mandate) my rights to medical privacy were protected. But I keep forgetting that the government does not have to obey the laws they pass. I understand the need for checking such items, and want them to be checked. But it would be nice to have this done in privacy. I'm willing to take the couple of extra minutes for this.
January 31, 2008 4:52 PM
MISSING THE TARGET - I'll never forget returning from fighting for our safety in Iraq, in full military uniform (I'm a Sr Officer) and being pulled aside in full view and being "strip searched" because there are some tiny metal clips on the sides of the uniform pants that "beeped". Have we gone so far in the U.S. we can't figure out who are the good guys and bad guys? If folks aren't smart enough or aren't allowed to figure out who is the most likely real threat, they are ineffective. Ongoing facts prove that out.
January 31, 2008 4:57 PM
Y'all have a tough and generally thankless job. We don't hear much about your successes -- if security had prevented the 9/11 hijackers from boarding their planes, we wouldn't have had huge page-1 articles saying, "The World Trade Center didn't fall down today, thanks to the work of security agents in Boston and New York." You can't see the tragedies that were prevented. Thank you for what you do.
January 31, 2008 5:04 PM
Personally the TSA is the reason I will never fly to the USA I don't see why i should come to your country as a guest to be treated badley, I there for now intend to take my long haul holidays to Japan, I would love to come to the US as with the pound worth so much everything is cheap as chips and could easy end up spending $5k USD there.
But I don't see why I should but my self thought all of that never mind the biometric screening and questioner I will take my business and my money else where, you have to ask how many other people are doing exactly the same?
January 31, 2008 5:05 PM
Isn't the purpose of checking ID's to verify that the person with the ticket/boarding pass is who he/she says they are? Then, why does it matter if an ID is expired?
TSA at PIT would not accept my Colorado DL, as it had been cancelled when I moved to California. I showed my cancelled CO DL along with my temporary (no photo) CA DL. They were focused that the DL#'s didn't match (DUH! One was from CO, the other from CA!). Fortunately, I had anticipated a problem and took my passport along.
I travel several times a month. My #1 beef with TSA is that they are inconsistent.
#2 is the need to LIFT trays and carry-ons across tables/rollers that are not either level or sloped down!
It seems that the security lines are designed to irritate and inconvenience travelers.
We don't really have a choice to 'not' fly. The business traveler is a big part of what makes the economy go.
Besides, if we didn't fly, how many TSA agents would get laid off?
January 31, 2008 5:06 PM
In MOB a few days back there were 17 TSA people manning the station. This station has but one X-Ray Machine, one line, one station. The line of people waiting to get through was probably twenty people long and moving at a glacial pace. The majority of these TSA people were just watching and chatting about who was going to go on break next. At LEAST this overstaffed station could do something to hurry the screening up so that we didn't have to wait so long. And as I finally made it through one Barny Fife caught me counting these 17 TSA agents with a look of amazement on my face which got me "selected" for additional screening.
Air travel is horrible and the TSA is doing all they can to make sure that doesn't change.
January 31, 2008 5:07 PM
Okay, I've got multiple questions here.
First, why is it such a big deal about volume of liquids? Would we be any safer if larger volumes were allowed? Why is it if something is refused and we're not taking it with (multiple liquids) they are STILL thrown out together at Chicago? You do realize how big of a danger this could be if someone intended to, right?
Second, why is there a business class line for scanning at all, and why is it additionally not even enforced? I've never walked through the normal line.
Third, why are people grouped up waiting in the security line? If someone with bad intentions wanted to cause damage nowadays they'd cause 3x as much just blowing up the security wait-line thing since there are so many people crowded around (and its before any sort of scan for bad things).
Fourth, why do we not get to see our status with regards to the no fly list and stuff? Why do we have to file a FOIA for that?
Fifth, why is it international hardly gets any sort of scanning or looking at all at anything? I got plenty of my normal sized toiletries (8,12,15oz+) through on my carry-on to and from Israel via New York?
January 31, 2008 5:07 PM
I have a total knee replacement, plus have had some work done above my knee that has left metal in my leg. I know I'm going to set off the metal detector every time I go through. I give the TSA guys a heads up, and they proceed to pat me down.
It doesn't matter what I'm wearing. I can wear shorts, flip flops, and a thin t-shirt, showing all my scars on my knees, and they still stop me and pat me down. I don't argue, and don't fight them, but I figured by now if they've seen me, there's not exactly anywhere left to hide a weapon.
Even when I use my cane, and send IT through the scanner, they pat me down anyway.
It's pretty ridiculous. (Of course, TSA in general is $10B a year I think we could spend on something else), but why pick on an old cripple?
HistoryBuff
January 31, 2008 5:07 PM
The current system as it stands is the most inefficient, inconvenient, and costly process for both travelers and airlines.
The reality is profiling is what needs to occur and I would feel better if I was interviewed while having my bag checked rather than experiencing a strip search that inevitably will lead to nothing.
TSA really needs to train its people in interviewing travelers. You checked my bag, so what, you never asked me any questions while you were doing it. Did you pack your bag? Where you going? What are you doing there? Find out if I am nervous.
The security firm that was hired by American Airlines did its job in flagging the shoe bomber. The company should have simply turned him away.
There is a better way and the Israelis have been doing it for decades and are quite good at it.
The current system is frankly useless and simply a drain on everyone.
January 31, 2008 5:08 PM
Gripe: My TSA approved lock was removed (stolen!) from my suitcase on my last flight.
January 31, 2008 5:09 PM
I was traveling through Dulles, and I believe a TSA person stole my camera. For some reason, he took my tray off the conveyer belt and handed me some of the contents in it. Then, thinking he had given me everything, I continued on, and then he handed me some loose change. I only realized that my camera had also been in that tray when I boarded. It turned out to be essentially impossible by phone or email to report the incident, and by the time I returned from my trip it didn't seem likely that I would get any resolution to this incident. Is there any recourse to this kind of thing?
January 31, 2008 5:09 PM
TSA BTR
I had entertained clients from UTAH in Baton Rouge and helped them buy some local foodstuffs, liquids and the like (hot sauce, cane syrup, etc) and told them be sure to put them into your checked luggage.
They forgot, the TSA guys took the stuff, dropped it into a duffle bag at their feet, and then two of them HIGH FIVED each other, as if celebrating their new acquisition!!
Yep, money well spent, that's TSA.
What a waste....HB
January 31, 2008 5:10 PM
My check-in luggage was chosen for hand inspection at Chicago Midway last year. When I arrived at my destination, my clothes, although re-folded, were smeared in mud and grass throughout - including a fair amount of gravel in the mix. The likeliest explanation I could come up with is that my belongings were emptied into a bin during inspection - a bin that was not sufficiently cleaned after the previous inspection. I understand from the placard left in my luggage that the TSA is not responsible for damage. However, it would be helpful to institute some minimum cleanliness standards during such inspections.
January 31, 2008 5:11 PM
I hope that by seeing the sheer number of negative comments, people working for the TSA take it to heart.
1. If the screeners are so important, hire more capable and educated personnel. Test them to make sure they know at least 80% of the policies of the TSA. Reward and encourage TSA screeners to use common sense.
2. Work with airlines to give the policies and regulations a higher visibility to passengers. Instead of making it fine print, include a checklist of the most important and common policies for the passenger when he or she picks up the ticket from the ticketing counter or in the email for e-tickets. Keep the checklist simple and have it make sense. Make sure all TSA screeners have access to th same checklist at the security screenings.
3. Make it easier to lodge a complaint against abuse and failure to follow policy. Most passengers expect the TSA screener to be rude and apathetic, but when a TSA threatens or bullies a passenger, or is in violation of TSA policy, such complaints should be taken seriously.
4. Make it possible to compliment an effective and professional TSA screener. Provide survey cards for passengers at the gate or on the plane for passengers who request them. Recognize outstanding employees.
5. Give people with special considerations (infants, elderly, the disabled) a special line that they can use. Have screeners who can anticipate the needs and special circumstances and adapt the one-size-fits-all examination to give these people the dignity and respect they deserve. (For example, disrobing an elderly woman in public or patting down an infant while the mother is commanded to hold the child at arms' length seems to be the opposite of dignity, respect, or common sense.
5. Listen to the American people who want reform on some of the TSA policies. We pay your salaries. You work for us. The goodwill and appreciation most passengers initially extended to the TSA has been eroded by mismanagement, incompetent staff, and nonsensical and inconsistently applied policies. Nobody wants another disaster. We all want to feel safer, and we want people out there looking out for us. But the current people and policies of the TSA don't seem to be working.
This blog could be a step in the right direction. Don't dismiss the legitimate anger and frustration and puzzlement of passengers. Reform TSA policies now.
January 31, 2008 5:12 PM
I like that TSA is keeping airports safe. yet ur officers are rude and harrass some of the passengers including me. I will do just about anything to avoid using an airport now a days to avoid the lines and the stuff TSA make me go trough,
January 31, 2008 5:12 PM
I can understand the TSA's position in wanting us to leave our luggage unlocked. But after numerous incidences of pilfered items, and one instance where my cloth luggage was actually cut open, I sincerely do not agree with the TSA's position. What ever happened to the procedure, for people who know what kind of thieves works in baggage, to have their luggage pre-screened and than tagged while the traveler is standing there to watch? As it is, I just lock it.
January 31, 2008 5:15 PM
I had some things stolen in Dallas/ft. worth airport, made a claim and it was denied. I had a witness that the stolen items were in the bag, but "no way, Jose'. when items are stolen and the airline I flew, American, says this happens everyday, how the heck do you prove it? I'm upset that the people who are supposed to be guarding us are ripping us off!@#$&^%#$^&%#
January 31, 2008 5:17 PM
Two concerns:
1. Traveling with a disability. I have watched folks in wheelchairs being made to stand unsteadily for more than 5 minutes for the wheelchair to be scanned. I have been on crutches, non-weight-bearing, and had the crutches taken from me as