TSA Experiences

[Andrea]

Please share your Transportation Security Administration (TSA) experiences here. Be sure to denote if you are referring to before or after the “enhanced” pat downs began in November 2010.

I have not flown for over a year now and I find I am dreading any interaction with the TSA screeners due to the multitude of recent negative reports. I really want to know I am over reacting so my honey and I can fly away to some place warm for a week or so.

As much as I would love to know how everyone feels about the TSA, it would be my preference to hear from only those that have experienced TSA security. Thank you for your consideration.

Please tell me your experience(s) and be sure to include:

1) What airport you flew out of
2) Did you go through a metal detector or the backscatter
3) Did you alarm or opt out
4) Describe your pat down experience, if any
5) Describe the experience of anyone traveling with you or to visit you
6) State how you feel about the TSA and Homeland Security
7) Anything else you feel is pertinent

[Andrea]

Except for a few day trips for work, my last flight was in February of 2008. We had to change terminals during a layover in PHX. My carry on was passing through x-ray when the TSO starting yelling how we were going to make everyone miss their flights. He stopped the belt and began pulling things out of my bag. We have no idea what he saw in the x-ray that caused his reaction but he became even more excited and louder when he found our liquids, all in 3 oz bottles and in the quart size baggie. He opened the baggie and pulled out the bottle marked ‘sunscreen SPF 45’ in black sharpie. He then insisted this meant the bottle was 4.5 oz rather than 3 oz.

To this day, I can’t remember what happened after he found the offensive item but we were allowed to gather our things, including the sunscreen, and go.

I do not believe I am any safer now than I was before TSA. Nothing the TSA is doing will prevent a terrorist from taking down a plane. It would be my preference to do away with TSA.

Andrea

[JustJo]

I've flown a fair amount in the past year, but only between Syracuse, NYC, Orlando, West Palm Beach and Phoenix.

I got a pat down in West Palm for wearing a "voluminous skirt"...but it was no big deal...female TSA agent was polite, professional and quick. And another in Phoenix when I stupidly wore a blouse with a metal clasp that couldn't be removed and set off the metal detector. Again, no big deal.

I was given a choice in Phoenix to go in the backscatter line or the standard line...the TSA agent was just telling people (correctly) that the backscatter line moved faster, but we were all free to make our own choice. I went in the standard line, because I don't like the idea of the backscatter.

Andrea, I wonder if the TSA agent you described got all weird because your liquids were packed in your bag. In every airport I fly through they tell you to put them on top, not in your carryon, so that they can clearly be seen. He/She may have felt like you were trying to hide something.

Orlando security is slow and difficult to predict...mostly because a bazillion families are going through there on vacation. Sometimes it feels like they're just shoveling people through, and other times they get very picky.

[Andrea]

I've flown a fair amount in the past year, but only between Syracuse, NYC, Orlando, West Palm Beach and Phoenix.

I got a pat down in West Palm for wearing a "voluminous skirt"...but it was no big deal...female TSA agent was polite, professional and quick. And another in Phoenix when I stupidly wore a blouse with a metal clasp that couldn't be removed and set off the metal detector. Again, no big deal.

I was given a choice in Phoenix to go in the backscatter line or the standard line...the TSA agent was just telling people (correctly) that the backscatter line moved faster, but we were all free to make our own choice. I went in the standard line, because I don't like the idea of the backscatter.

Andrea, I wonder if the TSA agent you described got all weird because your liquids were packed in your bag. In every airport I fly through they tell you to put them on top, not in your carryon, so that they can clearly be seen. He/She may have felt like you were trying to hide something.

Orlando security is slow and difficult to predict...mostly because a bazillion families are going through there on vacation. Sometimes it feels like they're just shoveling people through, and other times they get very picky.

Thank you for your response. I am happy to hear you found your pat downs to be "no big deal".

Do you feel flying is safer with the latest TSA requirements, including receiving a pat down due to wearing a skirt or wearing clothing that has a metal clasp? Were you allowed to keep your things in view at all times?

You may be correct about why the TSA agent in my situation got all weird. We are not seasoned travelers so may have made a mistake but that certainly does not excuse his yelling at us.

Andrea

[Linus]

Please share your Transportation Security Administration (TSA) experiences here. Be sure to denote if you are referring to before or after the “enhanced” pat downs began in November 2010.

I have not flown for over a year now and I find I am dreading any interaction with the TSA screeners due to the multitude of recent negative reports. I really want to know I am over reacting so my honey and I can fly away to some place warm for a week or so.

As much as I would love to know how everyone feels about the TSA, it would be my preference to hear from only those that have experienced TSA security. Thank you for your consideration.

Please tell me your experience(s) and be sure to include:

1) What airport you flew out of
2) Did you go through a metal detector or the backscatter
3) Did you alarm or opt out
4) Describe your pat down experience, if any
5) Describe the experience of anyone traveling with you or to visit you
6) State how you feel about the TSA and Homeland Security
7) Anything else you feel is pertinent


I travel regularly. By that I mean I usually am somewhere up in the air 1-4 times a month. In fact, I have an upcoming trip outside of the US. The main airports I use/have gone through are: LAX (current home airport); JFK (Terminal 8 was former home airport); DFW (go through lots); YYZ (Toronto -- 1-3 times a year); YUL (Pierre Elliot Trudeau airport in Montreal); YHZ (once every other year); SJC (San Jose, CA); SFO (San Fran) and so on. I've rarely had problems in the last 3 years (I've had about 40-50 flights in those years) except once when I had my new passport but the ticket was in my old name. That took an extra 5 min at DC's Dulles airport (gawd awful TSA design where ALL terminals go through the same security checkpoint).

I've gone through both and have never had a problem (I'm pre-op at all levels). And I've never alarmed. This is simply because I've gotten a good routine: when going to the airport I put all things that could trigger the alarm into my knapsack, remove my laptop, take off my cap and shoes. While each TSA Security checkpoint has minor differences there are some consistencies:

- bags should be on the conveyor belt
- laptops, iPads and other tablets in their own box on the conveyor
- liquids outside of carry-on (I rarely take liquids with me unless it's my T -- most other liquids stay in my checked luggage)
- shoes are usually sandals (Keens) or Five Fingers; ideally something to easily slip on and off

I tend to get through checkpoints in 5 min or less. I've never been patted down but that may be because I've never given them reason to. I listen to what is said, pay attention, be polite and smile.

As for TSA and Homeland Security, well.. as a person who is allowed to stay in the country on a work visa and how I've been treated by them and USCIS, I'll hold my tongue. I will say this: I've seen some of the nastiest things said to TSA agents. These people do not get paid huge amounts to do their jobs nor do they deserve to receive the wrath of what we dislike about the rules. Those should be fired at the head of Homeland Security and the various Reps and Senators that voted the Patriot Act and Super Patriot Act into action, the very laws, IIRC, that created this organization.

As for safe, hardly. As a security geek, I can think of things that could make this country more safe (mostly related to how the US maintains it's foreign policy and it's image abroad). This does add transparency but doesn't address the true issue of safety. Regulations for the airlines, consumer protection and better standardization would help. Hearing -- non-stop -- about it being "Threat Level Orange" is asinine and does nothing.

Now, I will add that in this day and age I'd expect everyone to know what's required of them when traveling. I get frustrated by the number of people who refuse to check their oversized bag (yes, I know there is a fee with some airlines but it is annoying) and I get further annoyed by those who don't come to the security check points prepared in advance. TSA's website (and now their iPhone app) actually have good guidance as to what to do when going through the security process and what you're allowed to bring.

From TSA's website:

Make Your Trip Better Using 3-1-1

TSA and our security partners conducted extensive explosives testing since August 10, 2006 and determined that liquids, aerosols and gels, in limited quantities, are safe to bring aboard an aircraft. The one bag limit per traveler limits the total amount each traveler can bring. Consolidating the bottles into one bag and X-raying them separately from the carry-on bag enables security officers to quickly clear the items.



3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce (100ml) bottle or less (by volume) ; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 ounce (100ml) container size is a security measure.


Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.


3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.


Declare larger liquids. Medications, baby formula and food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. Officers may need to open these items to conduct additional screening.
Now, yelling at you is not acceptable. I would suggest that if it happens in the future, contact their Civil Rights office (I think it's kind of like an ombudsman or something: http://www.tsa.gov/what_we_do/civilrights/index.shtm) I will say that they have improved and they are listening to passengers. They certainly have been listening to the trans* community and our concerns, particularly about the Backscatter scanner.

[TickledPink]

I've flown a great deal/numerous airports. I've never experienced any negative behavior from a TSA employee. In fact, I've had fun with a great deal of them. I found, if I wear my "Bite Me" t-shirt, it's a hit every time!

There was an error on my part once. I forgot I had a bottle of water in my backpack and every bell and whistle in LAX went off! I was mortified, they were NOT amused. I tried to make the best of it, they were still NOT amused........:seeingstars:

They (TSA employees) have a tough gig. Keeping us safe! While rude and arrogance is not acceptable, I prefer nothing to be overlooked when I'm up in the air! Pat me down, scan me, check my bags and do it again if need be!

[Andrea]

Linus: Thank you for responding. I am sure there are travelers that mistreat TSA agents. Some people are just not good at tolerating any type of authority. You see it all the time with DMV, police, teachers, etc.

Tickled Pink: Thank you for offering your experiences. Is there a limit to what you would do to fly?

Andea

[Andrea]

Bump!! Any other TSA experiences to be shared?

[Andrea]

Bumping again. Anyone else have experience with TSA?

[Gemme]

Please share your Transportation Security Administration (TSA) experiences here. Be sure to denote if you are referring to before or after the “enhanced” pat downs began in November 2010.

I have not flown for over a year now and I find I am dreading any interaction with the TSA screeners due to the multitude of recent negative reports. I really want to know I am over reacting so my honey and I can fly away to some place warm for a week or so.

As much as I would love to know how everyone feels about the TSA, it would be my preference to hear from only those that have experienced TSA security. Thank you for your consideration.

Please tell me your experience(s) and be sure to include:

1) What airport you flew out of
2) Did you go through a metal detector or the backscatter
3) Did you alarm or opt out
4) Describe your pat down experience, if any
5) Describe the experience of anyone traveling with you or to visit you
6) State how you feel about the TSA and Homeland Security
7) Anything else you feel is pertinent

I've flown from Orlando (Jo is right...it sucks), Seattle, Austin, Denver, Chicago, NYC, Jackson, San Francisco, Reno, and a bunch of other smaller airports that I just can't remember right now. Denver and Austin are the easiest, by far, to navigate. Seattle's not horrible either. The really BIGGGG cities? Fuggitaboutit.

It's been a little under two years since I've flown anywhere, to the best of my recollection.

I've never been backscatted but I have been patted down. The last time, I forgot to take off my sweatshirt before going through security. My error and the lady was quick with the pat down. I did have to wait for them to find her as there were no females at the security point when I went in. In my own defense, it was o'dark thirty and I was effin sleepy. But again, it was my error. Before that, I think I was patted down twice. Once because I had a corset on that had metal in it and I wasn't removing it and once I can't remember why but it was years ago and neither left me with a bitter taste.

I've been rather fortunate in terms of speediness (versus safety) as I have packed things that aren't really supposed to be packed, either from laziness or a mental hiccup, that have gone through just fine and without raising alarm. I did lose a nail file and a small pair of scissors, separately, over the years. I really miss that file, darn it.

I think that the TSA has a job to do and those who have the power to make that job better or worse are working hard on the latter, unfortunately. The agents themselves have, for the most part, been courteous and/or downright kind in my experience. Of course, there have been a couple of snobasses or grumpalumps but who doesn't have a bad day now and again?

All in all, my flying experiences have been okay. What I tend to remember more than the security stuff, is how the flight staff treat me. There have been some outstanding flight attendants that I remember and a handfull of really crappy ones that obviously didn't give a rat's patootie about any of us on the flight. Again, we all have bad days but those are the memories that stick with me most. Not the few minutes I spend in line with TSA, but the hours I spend sitting in those uncomfortable seats and the flight staff that either makes that time better, or worse.

[Apocalipstic]

) What airport you flew out of. Nashville, LAX, London Heathrow, O'Hare, Midway, Charlotte, Dulles, Toronto, Vancouver, Atlanta, Detroit, etc.

2) Did you go through a metal detector or the backscatter. Usually metal detector

3) Did you alarm or opt out
Never had a problem

4) Describe your pat down experience, if any.
When I have been patted down, I just looked the other way and dealt. It was ok and everyone very nice and respectful


5) Describe the experience of anyone traveling with you or to visit you
No one traveling with me has has a problem, ecept my boss when he tried to bring in marmalade. He was mad, but TSA just made him place it ion his luggage.

6) State how you feel about the TSA and Homeland Security
I feel like the Patriot Act continues to take away many of our rights. I am not a fan. TSA...working people doing their jobs.

7) Anything else you feel is pertinent. Like Linus said, be prepared and plan on having a good calm attitude and it should all be just fine. :)

[Andrea]

Thank you Gemme and apocalipstic for your responses.

Not sure what I was looking for with this thread but I am not feeling any more comfortable about dealing with TSA than I did before.

Once again, I appreciate every response.

Andrea

[durrrrrrrr]

i fly a lot. I've never had any problems. I did have some listerine thrown away cuz it was over the 3 oz, that was my mistake.

I have been a couple times asked to step to the side and put in that x-ray machine that does a 360 and then had to wait for the results. I have been asked to step aside where they took some cloth kinda material over my hands ( i later found out that was done to see if there is any residue from explosive materials or anything out of the ordianary. i have been patted down, still didnt bother me any

I never have had any real major problems. and whenever or every time I get singled out for extra inspection, I don't mind at all. Whatever it takes to make sure everyone is safe.

the lady who inspected my suitcase and took out the listerine told me what she was looking for even before she opened the suitcase. thought she was nice and did a great job.

I never give any of the TSA people problems. I do the "yes sir" or "yes ma'am" cuz i respect what they do.

[Nina]

I just figure if I want, or need, to fly it's part of the whole deal...

I did have a creepy and intrusive "pat down" one time...so much so that another passenger commented on it when we were through the check-point...she could tell that there was something wrong with it from her line...but, what am I going to do?...stand and scream like a crazy person and not get on the plane?...worse has happened to me, to be sure...

I have gotten through some times in a second...and other times someone wants to do what they want to do so I have to take things out of my purse or carry on...send them through the xray machines over and over...*shrug* again, what am I going to do?

I am very single minded about flying--I want to get up into the air, come down from the air...when the trip is over do the same thing in reverse and then I've had a good trip...all the other stuff is just other stuff...

some of the screeners may misuse their absolute power and others are just doing a job...it's all gonna be over very quickly in the span of a life...

just be sure to wear socks, stockings, something to cover your feet for the taking your shoes off part...it's filthy enough, and with bare feet--well, it makes me shudder thinking of it...bring some disposable booties if you care to, that will keep your stockings or socks clean for when you're allowed to wear your shoes again !:)

safe travels...

[Andrea]

Please note: These are all crimes from 2011. This does not include previous years or undiscovered crimes.

I feel sad, angry and betrayed all at the same time.

FuPKNQiHw1U

[Morgan]

I have much to say on this subject...first let me say I am appalled by the actions of these TSA workers. However, it happens everywhere, from police officers to Priests and anywhere a person is in power, but it does not mean we stop trusitng law enforcement officers or stop going to Church.

I would like to share my personal story after 9/11, I can truly say what happened that day impacted my life....and sickened me to the core. I have never felt so angry as I did on that day, and I felt so friggin powerless. I was living in Maine at the time and was ready to jump in my car and head to New York City, I was stopped by my partner at the time and realized I could not do anything that day to help. So I watched in horror as the building collapsed and prior to that I saw people jumping to their deaths on the television in my livingroom.

A few days later, I got a call from my guard unit, asking if I would volunteer for an assignment to the airports, standing guard with a loaded M-16 rifle, and you can best bet I had enough ammunition to blow those mother f....cking terrorists back to afghanistan. I carried 100 rounds on my person and in my weapon, I was ready and people stopped and thanked me for being there. People were scared and people were angry, but we had to fly, we had no alternative, but to take our airports back. This was our right, we should not have had to fear flying or any other mode of transportation, who gave them the right to take away our freedom. I swore to myself that I would protect you and anyone else, that needed protection....

Five months from the day in which I got to the airport, I applied for the first ever TSA security positions in the US, it was a supervisor position, I was sent to Chicago and passed the written, physical and emotional tests for the job. Many people did not pass and were escorted from the hotel, this numbered in the thousands. A few weeks later I was sent to Oklahoma City, for training to begin federalizing the airports. The individuals who trained me were retired and ex-federal officials from the secret service, FBI and CIA department. They had no experience in screening at the airports, but knew how to look for terrorists and people that were not on the up and up...they trained us for 2 weeks, on everything from screening bags, pat downs, screening passengers, x-ray machines, and facial expressions. We learned what we needed to know to protect all the people in the airports from flying with a terrorist, who did not give a f..ck what happened to you or any other American. I trained so that I could go to the airports and train other screeners how to also protect you and everyone else, we started with Baltimore, then I headed to JFK, LaGuardia, and Houston Hobby...then I was sent back to my airport in Maine. While in NYC I had a chance to see the pit which once stood the Twin Towers and I cried, for all the people who lost their lives and their loved ones, but mostly I cried, because in one day we lost our faith in humanity....and the right to believe that we are all safe.

I know that TSA is not perfect, but tell me one career that is and I will call you on it. They are there to protect your freedom and your rights....there are some bad apples and I say punish them....they are stupid, selfish, idiots and deserve to be punished.

Sorry about my rant, but I am passionate about this and although I only worked with TSA for three years, many of my friends still work there and are hard working, honest individuals who want to make your life safer.....

[Andrea]

Morgan, thank you for your heart felt reply. No, I am not suggesting there are any professions that don't have some type of corruption or 'bad' people. I do feel the TSA has an inordinately large number of child sexual abusers, many in TSA management positions.

My understanding is there are 50,000 TSA employees at the airports. The video I posted only listed 12 incidents from 2011. I am also aware of several more not included in the video, including payments made to a TSA employee to allow transportation of drugs. In my mind, that is too large of a percentage to be 'acceptable'.

I don't have an answer to this problem. People want security, real or perceived. I just want people to understand they need to be aware of the issues found within the TSA. Everyone should weigh the facts for themselves.

[ruffryder]

No pat downs Here post 9/11, Denver, Orlando, Houston, Puerto Vallarta.. My daughter has been traveling alone since she was five now she's fifteen. airlines and airports have been kind enough to let me and grandparents through security to escort her to gate and pick her up. On a recent occasion to pick her up in Orlando I had to go through the body scanner, so I did. I went through and was headed to get my belongings and a female tsa agent said "hold on sir". . 2 male tsa agents were at the xray machine nodded and then she said "oh NM you're okay." Lol I am preop Trans and was cracking up but happy I was called sir. I think if you follow the rules, are considerate, know they have a job to do and want little complication as possible things will go smooth for everyone. most are professional in their job and duties and understand people just want to get through and on with their travels. As a security officer having to check purses and bags at events, I know If people aren't ready when they hit the checkpoint and know the rules and what can be taken on site or on board it makes it uncomfortable for everyone and some become irritated and ask why and then just have to explain the rules and laws. So if you know all this ahead of time things will go smooth and fast and its to your advantage. I am glad we have the security we do in place and the homeland security and tsa branch. If you don't know there is also armed marshalls on airlines now dressed like everybody else.
I'd rather be safe knowing they have my safe travels in their interest and not letting a terrorist get through.

[JoSchmooze]

Having read all these responses, I would like to add my own two cents worth. I travel extensively because of my career. I have spent months on end going to the same place or flying as little as once a month. I have been doing this for a little over 15 years. I have seen all the changes since 9/11 and I agree with most of them.

Six years ago I had a titanium knee replacement. Since then I have been patted down or if possible, go through the backscatter machine. Now, in saying this I have found that before I go through the regular magnometer (screening machine) I indicate that they will have to call for a "female assist". The reason I bring this up is because even though I have not gone through any surgery, because of my size, hair stlye (spiky brush cut), voice and attitude I come off as male. All of the female TSA agents have treated me with respect . They explain everything they are going to do and will ask if you prefer a private screening. I treat the pat downs with a bit of humor by engaging with them by saying things like "you know you have to buy me dinner now" or "you know we have to stop meeting this way" but I always say it with a smile of my face! Most of the TSA agents in Tucson, AZ know me by face now and will have someone ready to gather up my belongings and escort me to a screening area. I have never missed a flight because of this process, nor have I been separated from my belongings. I am always able to see my belongings during a pat down. I actually missed packing up my laptop on my return home once but TSA contacted me that night (I have a business card taped to the cover of my laptop). When I went to retrieve it, all I ahd to do to prove that it was mine was start it up and enter the correct password (and show ID).

I do have one funny story......Recently I came through security in Frankfurt, Germany - not TSA but German officials. Of course, the magnometer buzzed when I went through and there were a male and female standing there with the handheld devices. I looked at the male and he was ready to start patting me down....I then looked at the female and said in my broken German "Ich eine frau"....I am a woman! He immediately stopped and her eyes got real big as she apologized profusely!!

Oh, and by the way....if you want to bring back cheese from Wisconsin home to your friends or family.....Be aware that it is the same consistency as C4 explosives. They will pull your carry on bag and ask to look inside! I spent a whole year going back and forth from Tucson to Milwaukee....I call that my "cheese smuggling trips"!

Relax and listen to the rules and there shouldn't be a problem.....

:cigar2:

[Andrea]

ruff and Jo:

Did you watch the video? How do you feel about the number of TSA being charged with crimes? Do you feel it is proportional to the profession compared to other professions?

As a side question to you both: do you have any concern for the radiation put out by the backscatter machine?

Thank you for your input.

[JoSchmooze]

ruff and Jo:

Did you watch the video? How do you feel about the number of TSA being charged with crimes? Do you feel it is proportional to the profession compared to other professions?

As a side question to you both: do you have any concern for the radiation put out by the backscatter machine?

Thank you for your input.

Yes, I watched the video....
The majority of the crimes were not
related to being a TSA agent...
I think Morgan had a valid point in that you can look at ANY
profession and see corruption...I believe that it is
proportional.....

As for the radiation....
I have had multiple surgeries in my lifetime..
I now have a fusion in my neck, a knee replacement,
the other knee has been arthroscopically scoped
three times, a hysterectomy, a tonsillectomy, bilateral
pulmonary emboli, too many fractures to count...multiple thallium stress tests....

I ain't gonna worry about the minute amount of radiation
from a backscatter machine....

As a good friend of mine says...
"You can't get out of this life alive"....

[aishah]

it's pertinent to mention that i wore hijab (covered my hair and most of my body) up until about six months ago (on my id i'm covering so sometimes that still gets raised eyebrows). i'm also disabled and use a cane, but i don't "look disabled" (whatever that means, i guess because i'm 24), and so i usually encounter a lot of prejudice/disbelief because of that. also, one of my partners is an airport security consultant (he works separately from tsa - he's employed by the airport - but he helps run security and communications at an airport and also devises security tests for tsa).

since november 2010 i've flown out of tallahassee, jacksonville, philadelphia, charlottesville, kansas city, detroit, columbus, and miami, most of them multiple times. i always travel alone.

most security checkpoints don't have a plastic cane that i can use to go through the metal detector, and when they do have it, i can't use it to go through the full body scanner. normally things are hectic and they're not prepared to handle passengers with disabilities. i get separated from my carry-on luggage frequently. when i was covering i used to get my head and body patted down, no matter how small my scarf was or how obvious it was there was NO way i could be hiding a bomb under there ;) because of my fear of being separated from my luggage and having things stolen (my partner has told me a lot of horror stories), i've never requested a private screening instead of the full-body scanner. i'd prefer it but i don't have the energy to deal with it.

i never bring anything unnecessary through the checkpoint. just my laptop, kindle, a notebook, my wallet, my phone. i wear shoes that are easy to get on and off and i never wear jewelry through the checkpoint. i'll go through extra pains to check everything else just so i don't have to deal with managing it through the checkpoint.

by far the worst experience i've had was in the jacksonville airport - i was put through the metal detector and the full-body scanner and patted down twice, then i was patted down again by every tsa agent that passed me on the way to the gate. having to put down my laptop case, figure out what to do with my cane while standing in the ridiculous pat-down position, and being humiliated in front of other passengers when it was obvious i was the only one being singled out for extra screening just made the whole experience pretty awful.

the good experiences mostly outweigh the bad. the good news is a lot of agents are too tired/overwhelmed to bother with a ton of extra screening, and every now and then i'll run into some who are really compassionate about the fact that i'm disabled and that makes screening more difficult, and who try very hard not to separate me from my belongings. even most of the ones who have made things difficult for me were at least not rude about it. it's made flying a rough experience which is kind of annoying because my amount of flying has been increasing a LOT, not decreasing...but i do love to fly. i just dread the security checkpoint a lot and i'm paranoid about making it to the gate in time to pre-board. i usually get to the airport 1.5-2 hours early just in case (1 hour is plenty of time for most people).

tsa is there to do their job. i get that. i have a lot of respect for them and everyone else working in airport security. but sometimes i question the efficacy of what they have to do (and i get that it's not their choice) - but, like, patting me down multiple times when it's obvious i'm not a threat rather than using some of that time/energy to pat down other passengers who might be? that doesn't seem efficient to me. but whatever. i don't have a grudge against tsa by any means. but i don't trust them with my belongings and i just wish their policies didn't make it so inconvenient for disabled passengers.

[tapu]

There was this time when Tiny Son was about 5 and the TSA agent asked if we had anything flammable, and Tiny Son said, "Just shirts." His reasoning was that shirts could be used to start a fire. They told him shirts were okay.

[tapu]

Then there was this other time when Tiny Son was old enough to have discovered sarcasm and when the TSA agent said, Do you have any firearms or other weapons?, Tiny Son said, "Right, we have guns." He claims that I actually punched him in the chest, but I don't remember much from the time period immediately following.

[Andrea]

I truly appreciate the responses so far. Anyone else care to share their thoughts?

[aishah]

just thought i'd share that i'm traveling from kansas city international today (through dulles to charlottesville) and had a wonderfully painless experience with tsa :) a little bit of difficulty getting through the metal detector as they didn't have any way to assist me while my cane was going through screening, but it only took a minute so i could mostly walk on my own. it all went very quickly and i didn't get separated from my stuff, patted down, or not so randomly selected for additional screening. yay for good security checkpoint experiences!

[Andrea]

just thought i'd share that i'm traveling from kansas city international today (through dulles to charlottesville) and had a wonderfully painless experience with tsa :) a little bit of difficulty getting through the metal detector as they didn't have any way to assist me while my cane was going through screening, but it only took a minute so i could mostly walk on my own. it all went very quickly and i didn't get separated from my stuff, patted down, or not so randomly selected for additional screening. yay for good security checkpoint experiences!

I am happy for you the experience was painless, and happy that you are able to walk without your cane for that minute. It is nice to hear of near painless experiences in addition to the bad ones.

[Andrea]

In case you missed it.... TSA unable to let a woman through the security check because there wasn't a woman TSA working should she need a pat down.

http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/30424404/detail.html (http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/30424404/detail.html)

[Andrea]

Peanut butter is a liquid?

http://blog.sfgate.com/crime/2012/02/15/pot-in-the-peanut-butter-jar-doesnt-fool-tsa/ (http://blog.sfgate.com/crime/2012/02/15/pot-in-the-peanut-butter-jar-doesnt-fool-tsa/)

[Linus]

Peanut butter is a liquid?

http://blog.sfgate.com/crime/2012/02/15/pot-in-the-peanut-butter-jar-doesnt-fool-tsa/ (http://blog.sfgate.com/crime/2012/02/15/pot-in-the-peanut-butter-jar-doesnt-fool-tsa/)

If it's really creamy...

[Corkey]

just thought i'd share that i'm traveling from kansas city international today (through dulles to charlottesville) and had a wonderfully painless experience with tsa :) a little bit of difficulty getting through the metal detector as they didn't have any way to assist me while my cane was going through screening, but it only took a minute so i could mostly walk on my own. it all went very quickly and i didn't get separated from my stuff, patted down, or not so randomly selected for additional screening. yay for good security checkpoint experiences!

LAX isn't much better, tho I did have the assistance of an arm from a TSA agent.

ETA: I have a neuro stimulator and can not go through the machine, so I always get the "pat down", my cane however got the full treatment.

[SweetJane]

I've traveled quite a bit over the past 2 1/2 years experiencing TSA security checkpoints in Seattle, Phoenix, Ontairo California, Minneapolis, Albuquerque, and Dallas. I even traveled out of Phoenix the day before Thanksgiving. Never have I experienced any trouble. Security people have always been helpful and courteous---even when I pinged because I left my keys in my pocket. And I traveled with a lot of gear: a professional camera, a laptop, and a portable DVD player. They were always very professional and helpful. I went out of my way to thank them for what they do.

[*Anya*]

I have traveled a bit lately. Different experiences different airports.

One airport- no problem with sealed bottle of liquid med, with prescription written and signed by my MD. TSA told me it was great it was factory sealed.

Another airport, same med, same script, same seal: got me a public pat down in front of everyone in the security line. No offer of privacy, crotch and breasts included. Embarrassing, even if it was a TSA butch dyke doing the body check.

Third airport-TSA was happy it was unsealed this time. Checked it to make sure not explosives, no problem.

Three airports. Three different rules/treatments. Consistency would be nice.

[Andrea]

I have traveled a bit lately. Different experiences different airports.

One airport- no problem with sealed bottle of liquid med, with prescription written and signed by my MD. TSA told me it was great it was factory sealed.

Another airport, same med, same script, same seal: got me a public pat down in front of everyone in the security line. No offer of privacy, crotch and breasts included. Embarrassing, even if it was a TSA butch dyke doing the body check.

Third airport-TSA was happy it was unsealed this time. Checked it to make sure not explosives, no problem.

Three airports. Three different rules/treatments. Consistency would be nice.

Consistency would be nice. I flew twice last year. Both times from the same airport to the same airport and back again. Not one of the times was the same as the other.

[Andrea]

TSA lied about the one supposed terrorist they caught. And the supposed terrorist is paying for it.

http://www.clickorlando.com/news/TSA-exaggerates-claims-about-2008-incident-at-OIA/-/1637132/8820472/-/f1k71tz/-/ (http://www.clickorlando.com/news/TSA-exaggerates-claims-about-2008-incident-at-OIA/-/1637132/8820472/-/f1k71tz/-/)

[Andrea]

How much retraining does it take to learn how to do the job?

http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2012/03/dozens_of_newark_tsa_employees.html (http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2012/03/dozens_of_newark_tsa_employees.html)

[stargazingboi]

Please share your Transportation Security Administration (TSA) experiences here. Be sure to denote if you are referring to before or after the “enhanced” pat downs began in November 2010.

I have not flown for over a year now and I find I am dreading any interaction with the TSA screeners due to the multitude of recent negative reports. I really want to know I am over reacting so my honey and I can fly away to some place warm for a week or so.

As much as I would love to know how everyone feels about the TSA, it would be my preference to hear from only those that have experienced TSA security. Thank you for your consideration.

Please tell me your experience(s) and be sure to include:

1) What airport you flew out of
2) Did you go through a metal detector or the backscatter
3) Did you alarm or opt out
4) Describe your pat down experience, if any
5) Describe the experience of anyone traveling with you or to visit you
6) State how you feel about the TSA and Homeland Security
7) Anything else you feel is pertinent


Over the past 10 years I have have gone through allot of air ports and find each time an experience all in itself.

I have been through metal detectors, been pat down, gone through the puff machine (they have you stand there and it puffs air at you from every angle and detects if you are carrying a dangerous chemical substance), I have been through the x-ray and I have had my bags gone through. I must look like a devious character because I get selected almost every time I fly (or it's just shit luck). I do find that if I fly through the same airport often the TSA folks get to know me and I get through much faster.

I have never set off any alarms..I tend to know what needs to be done to ensure I don't set them off. I don't carry anything that will cause issue. I have found if I can that mailing certain things ahead of time (liquid vits, medications, etc) make it easier for me.

My pat down experience always depends on my own mood really...which tends to directly relate to the look on the TSA person face that is patting me down (I've been known to be a tad cocky depending on the look I get)

I tend to travel alone

I have no issue with them when it comes to most things, but do think that they could handle certain private items better. I have witnessed others be embarrassed because they had certain things in a carry on or in their checked bags (some airports require you to stand there while they x-ray your checked bags). I have had a couples experiences in my life time with same issues..but my wit tends to embarrass them more when they have attempted such things with me.

Honestly, what they do doesn't really make me feel safer than I did before 9/11. Why? because they still allow things on the flight that can easily kill people...only takes 1 pen or pencil, and I can bring on as many as I like :blink:

[genghisfawn]

I've been fairly lucky with airports. I think it's because I'm always ready with my coat and shoes off, laptop and camera ready for the bin and usually with a don't-mess-with-me-I-have-no-coffee-so-I'm-looking-placidly-neutral look on my face.

I'm interested in what Corkey said about neuro stimulators... my brother is 21 with various disabilities, including epilepsy, and has a VNS. A friend came to stay with me last week, and he's taking nuclear medical technology, and he reassured me that they would pat him down. My concern is being able to stay with him, even if that means getting a pat-down myself (every time I've had a pat-down it's almost as though it didn't happen - very light touch, very respectful, open flat hands, no grabbing... my doctor gets more personal during a throat exam!)

My friend also reassured me that the amounts of radiation coming from a backscatter machine are negligible according to the recommended limit of radiation to which one should be exposed per year. Everyone has their own opinion about radiation exposure, though. Naturally I asked him all these questions because the answers are generally interesting!

I'm only wondering just because I wanted to take a flight within Canada sometime with my brother so we can visit our dad in another city. He's autistic with lots of learning disabilities, PDD and epilepsy. I just hope the pat-down doesn't freak him out and that they understand and respect that he's not exactly going to just stand there like a statue for him. I also hope that they understand that I'm in charge of not only my own effects, but of his safety, behaviour and belongings, as well.

Has anyone travelled with a special needs person? How has your treatment been at security? From the experts like Morgan, what should I keep in mind?

Thanks!

[Linus]

I've been fairly lucky with airports. I think it's because I'm always ready with my coat and shoes off, laptop and camera ready for the bin and usually with a don't-mess-with-me-I-have-no-coffee-so-I'm-looking-placidly-neutral look on my face.

I'm interested in what Corkey said about neuro stimulators... my brother is 21 with various disabilities, including epilepsy, and has a VNS. A friend came to stay with me last week, and he's taking nuclear medical technology, and he reassured me that they would pat him down. My concern is being able to stay with him, even if that means getting a pat-down myself (every time I've had a pat-down it's almost as though it didn't happen - very light touch, very respectful, open flat hands, no grabbing... my doctor gets more personal during a throat exam!)

My friend also reassured me that the amounts of radiation coming from a backscatter machine are negligible according to the recommended limit of radiation to which one should be exposed per year. Everyone has their own opinion about radiation exposure, though. Naturally I asked him all these questions because the answers are generally interesting!

I'm only wondering just because I wanted to take a flight within Canada sometime with my brother so we can visit our dad in another city. He's autistic with lots of learning disabilities, PDD and epilepsy. I just hope the pat-down doesn't freak him out and that they understand and respect that he's not exactly going to just stand there like a statue for him. I also hope that they understand that I'm in charge of not only my own effects, but of his safety, behaviour and belongings, as well.

Has anyone travelled with a special needs person? How has your treatment been at security? From the experts like Morgan, what should I keep in mind?

Thanks!

I haven't traveled with a special needs person but my immediate thought is contact the airline you are traveling on and see if they can help you navigate TSA et al. Often they provide a service like this for elderly or families traveling in groups. You may also want to go to the TSA (or Canadian equivalent) website and see if there is any FAQs on this kind of thing.

[genghisfawn]

I haven't traveled with a special needs person but my immediate thought is contact the airline you are traveling on and see if they can help you navigate TSA et al. Often they provide a service like this for elderly or families traveling in groups. You may also want to go to the TSA (or Canadian equivalent) website and see if there is any FAQs on this kind of thing.

Hi Linus,

Thanks very much! When the time comes, I'll certainly take your advice as it seems sound. It's not even travelling from Saskatoon I worry about - it's coming back through Edmonton, which is a much bigger airport. I suspect I'll have all the time in the world to sort it out both ways, though.

My brother is pretty trusting. If I say it's okay, he'll submit to a pat-down. I just don't want them abusing him or anything, because he can't tell me, so I want to supervise. This isn't to say that I think they will... it's to say that anything could happen.

I'll keep watching this thread... thanks!

[Andrea]

I've been fairly lucky with airports. I think it's because I'm always ready with my coat and shoes off, laptop and camera ready for the bin and usually with a don't-mess-with-me-I-have-no-coffee-so-I'm-looking-placidly-neutral look on my face.

I'm interested in what Corkey said about neuro stimulators... my brother is 21 with various disabilities, including epilepsy, and has a VNS. A friend came to stay with me last week, and he's taking nuclear medical technology, and he reassured me that they would pat him down. My concern is being able to stay with him, even if that means getting a pat-down myself (every time I've had a pat-down it's almost as though it didn't happen - very light touch, very respectful, open flat hands, no grabbing... my doctor gets more personal during a throat exam!)

My friend also reassured me that the amounts of radiation coming from a backscatter machine are negligible according to the recommended limit of radiation to which one should be exposed per year. Everyone has their own opinion about radiation exposure, though. Naturally I asked him all these questions because the answers are generally interesting!

I'm only wondering just because I wanted to take a flight within Canada sometime with my brother so we can visit our dad in another city. He's autistic with lots of learning disabilities, PDD and epilepsy. I just hope the pat-down doesn't freak him out and that they understand and respect that he's not exactly going to just stand there like a statue for him. I also hope that they understand that I'm in charge of not only my own effects, but of his safety, behaviour and belongings, as well.

Has anyone travelled with a special needs person? How has your treatment been at security? From the experts like Morgan, what should I keep in mind?

Thanks!

I have not traveled with a special needs person but the stories I have seen reported in the news indicate it isn't always handled well. The first one that comes to mind is an aid and a daughter traveling with a fairly out of it elderly woman in a wheel chair. TSA would not listen to the aid or the daughter and would not allow them to assist during the wheel chair screening that requires the person to adjust themselves in the seat so that TSA can check under the person, behind the person, etc. TSA even refused to allow the woman's medically necessary diet to be brought on the plane.

Then there is the man who has had his colostomy bag accidentally opened two times by TSA so that he ended up with urine all down his pants. AND this was at the same airport.

Or the people with artificial limbs being forced to remove them so they can be run through the x-ray machine.

Just two days ago, a mother attempted to bring her breast pump through security and was told she couldn't because the bottles were empty. She was told to go to the ladies room and pump. Then she would allowed to pass security with her breast pump.

AND this is not even considering those people that have been sexually abused and must tolerate being touch by someone they don't know. NO, having someone from the same sex doing it does not make it better.

Thank you for your response.

[Andrea]

Hi Linus,

Thanks very much! When the time comes, I'll certainly take your advice as it seems sound. It's not even travelling from Saskatoon I worry about - it's coming back through Edmonton, which is a much bigger airport. I suspect I'll have all the time in the world to sort it out both ways, though.

My brother is pretty trusting. If I say it's okay, he'll submit to a pat-down. I just don't want them abusing him or anything, because he can't tell me, so I want to supervise. This isn't to say that I think they will... it's to say that anything could happen.

I'll keep watching this thread... thanks!

As far as supervising, there have been videos of the TSA forming a wall between the person being patted down and the person attempting to supervise.

[aishah]

definitely talk to the airline - they can sometimes provide someone to go with you through security (which in my experience tends to take some of the pressure off in terms of advocating for yourself/your brother).

[The Oopster]

it costs extra money and may not be cheap but some airports have greeter services and that might help get through security easier. The greeters themselves have clearance. They may also be able to answer some of your concerns.

I personally will do what I can do to avoid pat downs. People were respective of me to the degree of privacy however they were pretty rough physically the two times i've had them use a wand on me. Granted my body at that time was real sensitive. But it was to the point that if I am ever in a wheel chair a gain if I can take the 10 steps to get through the screener i'll do that over the pat down.

[The JD]

I get pulled out of the line for additional security checks nearly every time I fly. Even when I didn't set off the metal detector, I have often been asked to step out of the line to be wanded. One male TSA agent started to wand me before getting a better look at me, and called out, "Need a wand check for a female over here!" Another male TSA never noticed, or didn't bother to get a female TSA agent.

Even with the backscatter scans, I get pulled out and patted down. I've never felt inappropriately touched or treated less than professionally. But the frequency of searches does suggest that it's not entirely random. My ex-gf and I traveled together a lot, and since she never got pulled, it was all the more obvious that it was specific to me. It made her angry that the TSA is targeting butches as if we're terrorists, but it kind of amuses me. I'll admit here that I'm usually the last to notice homophobia directed at me, and when I do, I see it as their problem, not mine.

Oh, and I've had my palms swiped with a piece of paper that was fed into a machine that checks for trace explosives. On three different trips. :|

The irony here is that I'm a U.S. federal employee (Health and Human Services, not Homeland Security). I've been thoroughly documented and verified by dozens of government checks as a routine part of my job, and use radio-chip card keys and biometric readers (fingerprint scans) just to access my office. I'm used to government scrutiny and as long as it's done professionally, I take it in stride.

[Rockinonahigh]

Im flying out of sherveport to go to the reunion this year,I do hope I dont have a prob with the tsa folks,I wear short hair,my voice is deeper than most men's are and I shure wont be dressed in anything that resembles womens clothes.I do know that the tsa folks use a walk thrue scaner and have a wand,beond that I have no clue since its been several years since ive been to the ariport.I will be bringing my pro air inhaler with me on my persons the rest of my meds can go in my checked bag,I hope they dont get lost cause I must take them 2X a day.I will also be bringing pain paches for my back and if needed be wearing one.I wish I didnt have to fly but it will work out best for me.

[The Oopster]

I have never had any problems in regard to my gender identity and have never been pulled out for any special screening, my id is female and i don't match that gender id at all ... all my pat downs were when i was in a wheel chair and the one time i made a mistake and wore overalls and the metal set off the detector. I had a cane and the person actually was hitting me with the wand in my back.

[Ciaran]

Anyone else care to share their thoughts?

As a generalisation, my experience of security checks through US airports has been worse than elsewhere (Europe / Asia). This is because, in my experience, there's more chance of being taken aside and, more importantly, the attitude of the officials has tended to be more formal and more stilted than the attitude of officials in other countries.

I'm not sure why but the new bodyscanners have thrown up particular problems for me. Anytime I need to go through one of these machines, I'm invariably pulled aside. Twice in the past six months I've had what I would perceive to be rather intrusive "pat down" of my buttocks region .. I may appreciate this in other circumstances but not at an airport.

No doubt I don't make things easy for myself - I don't do small talk with most folk, let alone TSA officials, I don't smile or act in a deferential manner and I wouldn't attempt to joke or be sarcastic with them as they'd likely not understand.

All-in-all, I'm not a fan. On my trips to the US, it's another reason for me to regret the lack of good rail travel !

[Andrea]

Im flying out of sherveport to go to the reunion this year,I do hope I dont have a prob with the tsa folks,I wear short hair,my voice is deeper than most men's are and I shure wont be dressed in anything that resembles womens clothes.I do know that the tsa folks use a walk thrue scaner and have a wand,beond that I have no clue since its been several years since ive been to the ariport.I will be bringing my pro air inhaler with me on my persons the rest of my meds can go in my checked bag,I hope they dont get lost cause I must take them 2X a day.I will also be bringing pain paches for my back and if needed be wearing one.I wish I didnt have to fly but it will work out best for me.

You should never put your meds in your checked baggage. NEVER!! Place them in your carry-on to insure you have them the next time you need them. Even the airlines suggest this.

[Andrea]

As a generalisation, my experience of security checks through US airports has been worse than elsewhere (Europe / Asia). This is because, in my experience, there's more chance of being taken aside and, more importantly, the attitude of the officials has tended to be more formal and more stilted than the attitude of officials in other countries.

I'm not sure why but the new bodyscanners have thrown up particular problems for me. Anytime I need to go through one of these machines, I'm invariably pulled aside. Twice in the past six months I've had what I would perceive to be rather intrusive "pat down" of my buttocks region .. I may appreciate this in other circumstances but not at an airport.

No doubt I don't make things easy for myself - I don't do small talk with most folk, let alone TSA officials, I don't smile or act in a deferential manner and I wouldn't attempt to joke or be sarcastic with them as they'd likely not understand.

All-in-all, I'm not a fan. On my trips to the US, it's another reason for me to regret the lack of good rail travel !

Thank you for responding.

[Andrea]

I get pulled out of the line for additional security checks nearly every time I fly. Even when I didn't set off the metal detector, I have often been asked to step out of the line to be wanded. One male TSA agent started to wand me before getting a better look at me, and called out, "Need a wand check for a female over here!" Another male TSA never noticed, or didn't bother to get a female TSA agent.

Even with the backscatter scans, I get pulled out and patted down. I've never felt inappropriately touched or treated less than professionally. But the frequency of searches does suggest that it's not entirely random. My ex-gf and I traveled together a lot, and since she never got pulled, it was all the more obvious that it was specific to me. It made her angry that the TSA is targeting butches as if we're terrorists, but it kind of amuses me. I'll admit here that I'm usually the last to notice homophobia directed at me, and when I do, I see it as their problem, not mine.

Oh, and I've had my palms swiped with a piece of paper that was fed into a machine that checks for trace explosives. On three different trips. :|

The irony here is that I'm a U.S. federal employee (Health and Human Services, not Homeland Security). I've been thoroughly documented and verified by dozens of government checks as a routine part of my job, and use radio-chip card keys and biometric readers (fingerprint scans) just to access my office. I'm used to government scrutiny and as long as it's done professionally, I take it in stride.

Thank you for your input.

[Andrea]

I have never had any problems in regard to my gender identity and have never been pulled out for any special screening, my id is female and i don't match that gender id at all ... all my pat downs were when i was in a wheel chair and the one time i made a mistake and wore overalls and the metal set off the detector. I had a cane and the person actually was hitting me with the wand in my back.

Did you feel the hitting you with the wand in your back was retaliatory or accidental? Did you say something to the agent or report the incident up the chain of TSA?

[apretty]

E and I will be flying together for the first time, Thursday.

I shall post about the experience, after. :)

[The Oopster]

Did you feel the hitting you with the wand in your back was retaliatory or accidental? Did you say something to the agent or report the incident up the chain of TSA?

I would say neither retaliatory or accidental but more apathetic. The first time would have been accidental but when I repeatedly asked the person to be gentle because i have a bad back and she is hurting me they kept whacking it up against me. I did tell someone but as far as I know no report was filled out at frankly I wasn't feeling well enough that i wanted to stick around for one.

[Andrea]

Here is an interesting prospective from a retired FBI agent regarding TSA:

http://gmancasefile.blogspot.com/2012/01/tsa-fail.html (http://gmancasefile.blogspot.com/2012/01/tsa-fail.html)

[Rockinonahigh]

When I fly to LR I may well be useing my cane to walk with,its a metal one with a silver handle,it's a hollow metal rod and has a heavy duity rubber tip for good floor grip.The handle is solidly fixed but the rubber tip is on tightly but with enough pulling can be gotten off.What should I do about that issue or will there be an issue?

[Andrea]

I have no personal experience with TSA and a cane but I have read of others experience on another forum. The postings indicated TSA would ask you to walk through the WTMD or the Backscatter without your cane, while they run it through the x-ray machine. Someone did say one airport had a loner wood cane for her to get through the machines.

Hopefully the airports you will be using have a procedure that works for you.

[Andrea]

Good work TSA! /end sarcasm

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/new_jfk_security_breach_PB8L58gzpwjmyqktLHRssN#ixz z1oBpt6RBZ (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/new_jfk_security_breach_PB8L58gzpwjmyqktLHRssN#ixz z1oBpt6RBZ)

[Andrea]

How to get anything through TSA nude body scanners

olEoc_1ZkfA&oref

[Andrea]

Suggestions to improve TSA. I don't agree with the entire article but an improvement is an improvement....

http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/forum/story/2012-03-06/tsa-airport-security-screening/53388320/1 (http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/forum/story/2012-03-06/tsa-airport-security-screening/53388320/1)

[ruffryder]

when working security metal detectors recently I had to chuckle at people coming up to leave metal objects in the tray on the belt and walk through the detector when they looked confused at what they should be doing. .

After checking bags and purses they would try to proceed with the bag through the screener when it should be left on the belt. Others would leave jewelry on and some cell phones in pocket. I realized not all jewelry and belts would set the detector off and some were safe walking through with it on. Some would leave me everything in their pockets after I notified them just metal. I got gum, candy, papers.. hehe.

[Andrea]

Camera air puffers too dangerous to bring on a plane.

http://gizmodo.com/5892099/add-the-giottos-rocket-to-your-list-of-silly-things-banned-by-the-tsa (http://gizmodo.com/5892099/add-the-giottos-rocket-to-your-list-of-silly-things-banned-by-the-tsa)

[ArkansasPiscesGrrl]

I had never had any problems in any of the flights I have been on since 9/11, and had never been patted down until my flight last week from Little Rock. I had gone through the hands-on-my-head body scan (another first for me), and was directed over for a pat down. I was asked if I wanted a private pat down but I just figured there was nothing to worry about so I just had it out in the open. The woman was very polite, told me everything she was going to do. I did ask her why I was flagged for a pat down, she said I had tripped several alarms. (???) Anyway, everything went smoothly, and since I was there so early anyway (I am flying standby on this trip), it really wasn't an inconvenience to me at all. It was kinda interesting, actually!

As for my feelings about the TSA, I agree that they are simply trying to do their job, in keeping us safe. I appreciate them in that aspect completely. I have to fly a couple of times a year, and while not freaked about flying (the only thing I HATE about it is the turbulence!), things that put my mind at ease for safety are certainly appreciated!

[Andrea]

I had never had any problems in any of the flights I have been on since 9/11, and had never been patted down until my flight last week from Little Rock. I had gone through the hands-on-my-head body scan (another first for me), and was directed over for a pat down. I was asked if I wanted a private pat down but I just figured there was nothing to worry about so I just had it out in the open. The woman was very polite, told me everything she was going to do. I did ask her why I was flagged for a pat down, she said I had tripped several alarms. (???) Anyway, everything went smoothly, and since I was there so early anyway (I am flying standby on this trip), it really wasn't an inconvenience to me at all. It was kinda interesting, actually!

As for my feelings about the TSA, I agree that they are simply trying to do their job, in keeping us safe. I appreciate them in that aspect completely. I have to fly a couple of times a year, and while not freaked about flying (the only thing I HATE about it is the turbulence!), things that put my mind at ease for safety are certainly appreciated!

Thank you for responding. I am, however, curious how TSA helps you feel safer. They have not caught a single terrorist nor anyone with ill intent to the airplane, and their failure rate during tests is alarming. Not to mention the chances of another airplane terrorist attack are less than you dying in a car accident.

What is it about TSA that helps you feel safer?

[Andrea]

http://images.onlinecriminaljusticedegree.com.s3.amazonaw s.com/tsa-waste.gif

[Andrea]

This is a link to TSA's blog immaturely refuting the viral video on how to get anything through the see you nude machines (previously posted):

http://blog.tsa.gov/2012/03/viral-video-about-body-scanners.html (http://blog.tsa.gov/2012/03/viral-video-about-body-scanners.html)

[sylvie]

Just flew to Oregon from New Brunswick, Canada.
So flew SJ to Montreal, Montreal to LAX, LAX to Oregon.
Went through the detector just fine, in Montreal i did sound the alarm and my bag went to the side for them to go through, i forgot i had bought a bottle of water once i was through security in Saint John.. He merely took out the bottle of water, gave me a wink of the eye and said "be good" and handed me my bag.

i always worried i would set the alarms off with my piercing, but i didn't.. i got a pat down in LAX ...Honestly, i have had no real issues with any agents in any airports.. i flew to Oregon and back again in October with my 15 year old daughter, and very pleasant each time, got through quickly..

Personally i feel if they pat me down, search my bags, ask me questions, whatever it takes, i'm good with it.. Helps me know they're doing what is necessary to keep it safe, and i see them do the same with others and that makes me feel safe..

[foxyshaman]

I sincerely want to know why I have to show my passport a min. of six times; after I have passed the initial security. It's all in the same freaking area. It is my pet peeve. Seriously. Why?? why??? If I can fly over the US and not have to travel through there, I avoid it. Even if it means paying a bit more for my ticket. Bonkers, it drives me Bonkers. :seeingstars:

[Andrea]

Just flew to Oregon from New Brunswick, Canada.
So flew SJ to Montreal, Montreal to LAX, LAX to Oregon.
Went through the detector just fine, in Montreal i did sound the alarm and my bag went to the side for them to go through, i forgot i had bought a bottle of water once i was through security in Saint John.. He merely took out the bottle of water, gave me a wink of the eye and said "be good" and handed me my bag.

i always worried i would set the alarms off with my piercing, but i didn't.. i got a pat down in LAX ...Honestly, i have had no real issues with any agents in any airports.. i flew to Oregon and back again in October with my 15 year old daughter, and very pleasant each time, got through quickly..

Personally i feel if they pat me down, search my bags, ask me questions, whatever it takes, i'm good with it.. Helps me know they're doing what is necessary to keep it safe, and i see them do the same with others and that makes me feel safe..


Thank you for sharing your experience. It is great that it wasn't unpleasant.

[apretty]

On Sunday, I had to release a small, unopened cup of nonfat yogurt and I am still pretty irritated--The TSA agent was gleeful when she grabbed it away from me.

This is why people take shits on drink carts, I'm sure of it.

[Andrea]

I sincerely want to know why I have to show my passport a min. of six times; after I have passed the initial security. It's all in the same freaking area. It is my pet peeve. Seriously. Why?? why??? If I can fly over the US and not have to travel through there, I avoid it. Even if it means paying a bit more for my ticket. Bonkers, it drives me Bonkers. :seeingstars:

That is an excellent question. Have you asked anyone that might have the answer?

[Queerasfck]

A nice TSA guy said he liked my Margaret Cho t-shirt.

But the gal that took away apretty's yogurt was kinda gleeful about it.

:sushi:

[Andrea]

On Sunday, I had to release a small, unopened cup of nonfat yogurt and I am still pretty irritated--The TSA agent was gleeful when she grabbed it away from me.

This is why people take shits on drink carts, I'm sure of it.

Did you believe the yogurt to be an acceptable, non-terrorist item or did you just forget to take it out of the bag before entering security?

Was your scary yogurt placed inside a container that would protect others if it went off or was it placed in an open garbage can, thereby endangering everyone?

[foxyshaman]

That is an excellent question. Have you asked anyone that might have the answer?

Twice in fact. Each time the same response "policy". The second time I asked and was given the word policy, I responded by asking the agent what the policy was meant to prevent. The agent at that time stated she was unaware of the details. Her body language and facial expressions prevented me from pressing the issue any further.

It is a tricky thing to question 'the authority' in a situation like that. I do not know the ins and outs of what makes a person a 'fly risk'. Or what makes a person suspicious. Or even how far can a bad attitude be taken, can an agents poor mood affect my ability to fly that day? Is there a process to realistically appeal within the time frame of being stopped and your flight leaving?

Sometimes I think it is easier to get frustrated than risk the flight.

:canadian:

[JustJo]

It is a tricky thing to question 'the authority' in a situation like that. I do not know the ins and outs of what makes a person a 'fly risk'. Or what makes a person suspicious. Or even how far can a bad attitude be taken, can an agents poor mood affect my ability to fly that day? Is there a process to realistically appeal within the time frame of being stopped and your flight leaving?

Sometimes I think it is easier to get frustrated than risk the flight.

:canadian:

This is absolutely true, and I know there are some pretty bad TSA agents out there....but I've never had a bad experience....and your post made me think of one of the better ones.

It was the first time my son had flown unaccompanied, and I was nervous as can be. He was just barely 13.

I got a gate pass to meet him at the gate, at Orlando....which can have annoying and ridiculous security lines at times and then be empty at others. I planned for plenty of time (I'm always early at the airport), but hit bad traffic and rain on the way, then a long line at the counter to get my gate pass, and then a gigantic line at security.

Then, I see the arrivals board....my son's flight got a tail wind evidently, and is arriving half an hour early.

I have visions of him wandering off the plane, me not there to meet him, and him on his own at the age of 13 in a very large airport.

Naturally, I was anxious and stressed.

I'm sure I exhibited all the signs of a potential problem....impatient, antsy, muttering to myself, visibly agitated. In fact, a female TSA agent approached me and asked me what was wrong. Clearly, this wasn't casual conversation....at this point I was a potential security risk.

I explained my dilemma.

She nodded, and said if I would agree to the backscatter she would get me through quickly so I could meet him at the gate.

I agreed.

She was good to her word - pulling me from the line and sending me through an employee line with a detour to the backscatter machine.

I ran from the other side....arriving just in time to meet him.

I think we need to remember that TSA agents are human...good and bad. If we approach them the way we'd like to be approached, with respect, it generally turns out better.

[flirtyokie]

My only tip is avoid wearing underwire bras or clothing with metal on it. I've flown quite a bit in the couple years for work (TUL, OKC, SFO, BWI, NWA, ATL, LIT, MSP, etc etc etc...)

I've never had a bad experience as long as I've remembered to pull my liquids out, pull out my computer, wear a sports bra and slip on shoes. If you're bringing any kind of food, just pull it out and put it in its own bin because they're probably going to check it. (If it's in its own bin, it saves them from having to search your whole bag.) Prepare yourself for an extra 5 minutes or so.

Remember, TSA agents (here at least) start around $10 an hour. They're not getting paid enough to deal with all this bullshit, so be nice.

[apretty]

A nice TSA guy said he liked my Margaret Cho t-shirt.

But the gal that took away apretty's yogurt was kinda gleeful about it.

:sushi:

what happened to john shaft!?

i'm always the last to know.

[SelfMadeMan]

We travel somewhat frequently, and I'm happy to report that I've never had a negative experience with TSA. I know some people have, and it sucks, but I would advise anyone traveling to not go into it thinking negatively, and not to assume all TSA agents are assholes.

[Andrea]

South Park's take on the TSA.

HdnmGHOkokk

[Andrea]

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303863404577281483630937016.html (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303863404577281483630937016.html)

A comment as posted on FlyerTalk (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/checkpoints-borders-policy-debate/1325487-pistole-bean-counter-there-only-seven-terrorists-whole-world.html):
The article includes this lovely quote from the Dear Administrator:

"We can reduce the size of the haystack when we are looking for that one-in-a-billion terrorist," said TSA Administrator John Pistole.

Now, since there are seven billion people on the earth, there are only seven terrorists on the entire planet.

It seems to me that Pistole is squandering a lot of resources by only looking for those seven people at US airports.



Me: All this for seven terrorists? :|

[Scorp]

OMMFGGG...THIS IS FRIGGIN' HILARIOUS!!!! I literally was laughing out loud!!! LOVE IT!


South Park's take on the TSA.

HdnmGHOkokk

[Andrea]

I feel much safer now..../temporarily end sarcasm

YNO-AzPxS4U

[Andrea]

TSA screener busted while in uniform. Now I feel safer?

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/uniformed_tsa_screener_busted_in_RuJhwOv5tdqOWIgao 5GMkI (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/uniformed_tsa_screener_busted_in_RuJhwOv5tdqOWIgao 5GMkI)

[Andrea]

No comment except ICK!

http://www.abc2news.com/dpp/news/crime_checker/baltimore_county_crime/former-tsa-agent-from-baltimore-county-indicted-on-federal-porn-charges#ixzz1pVwGQjPk (http://www.abc2news.com/dpp/news/crime_checker/baltimore_county_crime/former-tsa-agent-from-baltimore-county-indicted-on-federal-porn-charges#ixzz1pVwGQjPk)

[ruffryder]

I feel much safer now..../temporarily end sarcasm

YNO-AzPxS4U

This video is going viral. Also others that include people with disabilities, using canes and the elderly. I'm sure these TSA agents are just doing their job how they are supposed to no matter who the traveler is. It is unfortunate however when this happens to these individuals especially.

In Orlando, travelers now older than 75 will be able to keep their shoes and light jackets on and avoid pat downs.

What do you all think? Do we still need pat downs and who warrants them?
How is it determined who could be a threat?

Again, working in security I have seen some people fly through the line while others may get a second look, a wand, or a pat down. Knowing this I like to treat everyone the same. If you let one person through with their child's meds and bottle filled with liquid you have to do it for all. . just my thought.

I also heard some airports may start to look at private security companies to do security instead of TSA..

[Andrea]

snip...

What do you all think? Do we still need pat downs and who warrants them?
How is it determined who could be a threat?

/snip

I don't feel pat downs are warranted. I am unaware of any terrorists discovered by TSA in the ten years using any of their security features.

One could say the pat downs are a deterrent to terrorists, but if deterrents worked we wouldn't have jails full of murderers, rapist, abusers, drug users and pushers, drunk drivers, etc.

Planes are now equipped with reinforced doors to the cockpit to prevent unauthorized entry and passengers have shown they will not allow anyone to disrupt flights.

All of this fear over something that will probably never happen again. Let's put our resources into places that can really help. Let's feed the hungry with the billions of dollars spent on TSA. Or supplement tuition for those in college. Or help people that are losing their homes in this economy.

/end of rant

[Andrea]

Is this a TSA success story? I don't think so. It appears the man had no intention of using the firearms for anything nefarious or he would have 1) gone off (pulled his gun) in the airport or 2) attempted to hide the firearms.

Also note, according to other articles, the pat down where his holstered gun was found, was not required until the firearms were discovered in his carry on. Does this mean the gun he carried on his person wasn't found in the backscatter screening? The walk through metal detector would have beeped for a gun.

http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/2012/03/23/20120323phoenix-passenger-guns-found-sacramento-airport.html (http://www.azcentral.com/community/phoenix/articles/2012/03/23/20120323phoenix-passenger-guns-found-sacramento-airport.html)

[Chancie]

There is no way to know how the passenger intended to use those guns.

It stretches my credibility that someone planning a plane trip could be unaware of the rules regarding whether guns may be packed in carry on luggage.

In general, I find the business of the TSA suspect at best.

The issue is not whether overworked, probably undertrained staff are considerate or rude. Obviously there are polite friendly people and judge-y inconsiderate people everywhere.

For me the question is Does the TSA have the right to have intimate access to our private bodies, and whether that invasion of privacy does anything anyway.

[Andrea]

There is no way to know how the passenger intended to use those guns.

It stretches my credibility that someone planning a plane trip could be unaware of the rules regarding whether guns may be packed in carry on luggage.

In general, I find the business of the TSA suspect at best.

The issue is not whether overworked, probably undertrained staff are considerate or rude. Obviously there are polite friendly people and judge-y inconsiderate people everywhere.

For me the question is Does the TSA have the right to have intimate access to our private bodies, and whether that invasion of privacy does anything anyway.

Chancie:

Thank you for your comment. My guess is this was a cry for help in the way attempted suicide is. He had to have known he would be stopped from carrying guns on the plane but he attempted it anyway. We will probably never know his thinking but his resulting actions upon being discovered did not indicate (to me) ill intent.

I agree with you about the questionable rights to "have intimate access" to our bodies. I seldom mention how our constitutional rights are being violated because I don't believe those that feel 'anything for safety' care about that so I focus on the TSA really doesn't make us safer things.

Everyone:

Since I don't believe TSA is going away, I would love to be convinced that we are safer with TSA and DHS. That would make my travels much more comfortable. Please explain to me your views. Please help me see what you see.

[Andrea]

TSA manager arrested at airport for operating his second job as a pimp.

http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/news/local/tsa-manager-arrested-for-running-prostitution-ring-032812#ixzz1qRISaevM (http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpp/news/local/tsa-manager-arrested-for-running-prostitution-ring-032812#ixzz1qRISaevM)

[Andrea]

Just imagine the ramp service officer and/or TSA allowing a bomb through.

http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story.asp?StoryId={561bc07a-5da1-4fea-ac81-09e04b66417a}&src=MWHEAD (http://www.menafn.com/qn_news_story.asp?StoryId={561bc07a-5da1-4fea-ac81-09e04b66417a}&src=MWHEAD)

[Andrea]

Janet Napolitano's response to why airports in other countries don't require you to take your shoes of:

"one is, first of all, not all airports in the world face the same threats we face. everything being done is because of constant continual attempts to try do something to the united states and its aviation system . that’s number one."

Full interview here: http://video.msnbc.msn.com/mitchell-reports/46906528#46906528 (http://video.msnbc.msn.com/mitchell-reports/46906528#46906528)

Do you believe terrorists are only after U.S. airports?

[Andrea]

Still more documentation the TSA is not adding to our safety.

3CV_tJv7P2o

[Andrea]

This makes 12 child sex crimes in 16 months.

http://www.bostonherald.com/news/regional/view.bg?articleid=1061123719&srvc=rss (http://www.bostonherald.com/news/regional/view.bg?articleid=1061123719&srvc=rss)

[Andrea]

Elderly couple has money stolen at TSA checkpoint.

http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120418/OPINION03/204180345/1409/METRO/Seniors-get-TSA-runaround-lose-300 (http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120418/OPINION03/204180345/1409/METRO/Seniors-get-TSA-runaround-lose-300)

[Andrea]

"Anyone who rode the bus in Houston, Texas during the 2-10pm shift last Friday faced random bag checks and sweeps by both drug-sniffing dogs and bomb-sniffing dogs (the latter being only canines necessary if "preventing terrorism" were the actual intent of these raids), all courtesy of a joint effort between TSA VIPR nests and three different local and county-level police departments."

So much for if you don't like it, don't fly.....

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2012/apr/18/tsa-mission-creep-us-police-state (http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cifamerica/2012/apr/18/tsa-mission-creep-us-police-state)

[ruffryder]

A lady stripped naked at Denver International Airport and recently a man protesting TSA and harrasment also did in Portland. haha!

It's a shame it has to come to this when people feel harrased and think they have no other alternative.

[ruffryder]

Screening Rules if you knew or didnt:

You can carry on small amounts of liquids, but you must follow what TSA calls the 3-1-1 rule: 3.4-ounce container(s) or smaller, in one quart-size clear plastic zip-top bag, one bag per passenger. Medications, baby formula and food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces, and don’t have to be in the bag. Declare these things at the checkpoint. Officers may open some or all of them to screen them.

The 3.4 ounces applies to the container. Larger containers that are partly filled and large toothpaste tubes that are rolled up aren’t allowed. What’s a “liquid”? Use this informal rule of thumb: If you can pour, pump, squeeze, spread, smear, spray and/or spill it, it’s a liquid. Pastes, ointments and mascara are considered liquids.

Frozen food is considered a solid. If it’s partially melted — “such as gravy,” TSA’s website says — it’s liquid, and subject to 3-1-1.

Snow globes and other tchotchkes containing liquid are prohibited, “even with documentation.”

Gel shoe inserts are forbidden onboard aircraft. Gel-filled bras are allowed. Children 12 and younger may now keep their shoes on.

Scissors with blades shorter than four inches, even with pointed tips, are now allowed. Ice skates — despite having potentially long, sharp blades — are allowed. Screwdrivers seven inches long or shorter are allowed, perhaps surprisingly, as are wrenches and pliers seven inches long or shorter.

Common lighters are O.K., as is one book of safety (non-strike anywhere) matches.

Passing through electronic detection equipment is optional, though TSA assures it is safe for all, including pregnant women. Those opting out will be searched via pat-down.

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/lifestyle/2012/04/snow-globes-out-small-scissors-in-current-airport-screening-rules/

[Andrea]

Screening Rules if you knew or didnt:

You can carry on small amounts of liquids, but you must follow what TSA calls the 3-1-1 rule: 3.4-ounce container(s) or smaller, in one quart-size clear plastic zip-top bag, one bag per passenger. Medications, baby formula and food, and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces, and don’t have to be in the bag. Declare these things at the checkpoint. Officers may open some or all of them to screen them.

The 3.4 ounces applies to the container. Larger containers that are partly filled and large toothpaste tubes that are rolled up aren’t allowed. What’s a “liquid”? Use this informal rule of thumb: If you can pour, pump, squeeze, spread, smear, spray and/or spill it, it’s a liquid. Pastes, ointments and mascara are considered liquids.

Frozen food is considered a solid. If it’s partially melted — “such as gravy,” TSA’s website says — it’s liquid, and subject to 3-1-1.

Snow globes and other tchotchkes containing liquid are prohibited, “even with documentation.”

Gel shoe inserts are forbidden onboard aircraft. Gel-filled bras are allowed. Children 12 and younger may now keep their shoes on.

Scissors with blades shorter than four inches, even with pointed tips, are now allowed. Ice skates — despite having potentially long, sharp blades — are allowed. Screwdrivers seven inches long or shorter are allowed, perhaps surprisingly, as are wrenches and pliers seven inches long or shorter.

Common lighters are O.K., as is one book of safety (non-strike anywhere) matches.

Passing through electronic detection equipment is optional, though TSA assures it is safe for all, including pregnant women. Those opting out will be searched via pat-down.

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/lifestyle/2012/04/snow-globes-out-small-scissors-in-current-airport-screening-rules/

Some things were left off the list:

Cupcakes in a jar - http://consumerist.com/2012/01/tsa-rules-that-once-a-cupcake-is-inside-a-jar-its-not-okay-to-carry-on.html (http://consumerist.com/2012/01/tsa-rules-that-once-a-cupcake-is-inside-a-jar-its-not-okay-to-carry-on.html)

Empty breast milk containers - http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/hawaiian-mom-breast-pump-humiliated-tsa/story?id=15835844#.T4-LyNXEN5o (http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/hawaiian-mom-breast-pump-humiliated-tsa/story?id=15835844#.T4-LyNXEN5o)

I didn't know about the gel filled inserts. Wonder how come they are dangerous but gel filled bras aren't.

[Andrea]

Diabetic 5th grader gets the grope

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lisa-belkin/airport-security-pat-downs_b_1432606.html (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lisa-belkin/airport-security-pat-downs_b_1432606.html)

[homoe]

It's a darn shame those TSA workers have no sense of humor! I'd love to say "Now you owe me dinner and a movie" after being gropped by them...:hangloose:

[Andrea]

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s320x320/405395_10150611752957442_599817441_10875735_146333 5309_n.jpg

[The Oopster]

Went through tsa five times had no problems any of the times. I was even called sir despite the f marker on my license which is what I prefer. A couple of times they patted one or two small specific areas but at the end nothing. I do have a fairly good system down where I take everything off at out and put it in a small carry on knapsack .. belt ... wallet ... change ... watch ... etc... before i even get to the check point. I don't bother with anything that could be questionable ..just put that stuff in my suitcase.

[JoSchmooze]

It's a darn shame those TSA workers have no sense of humor! I'd love to say "Now you owe me dinner and a movie" after being gropped by them...:hangloose:

Since I have had a knee replacement I am patted down when
there is no special xray machine...
I ALWAYS make it a point to the woman (dyke or whomever)
that they owe me at least a dinner!

:cigar2:

[Andrea]

4 year old gets pat down after hugging Grandma

http://consumerist.com/2012/04/4-year-old-gets-tsa-pat-down-following-hug-from-grandma.html (http://consumerist.com/2012/04/4-year-old-gets-tsa-pat-down-following-hug-from-grandma.html)

TSA's policy is to run children under the age of 12 through the scanner until the issue is resolved. Why didn't they do that this time?

[Toughy]

4 year old gets pat down after hugging Grandma

http://consumerist.com/2012/04/4-year-old-gets-tsa-pat-down-following-hug-from-grandma.html (http://consumerist.com/2012/04/4-year-old-gets-tsa-pat-down-following-hug-from-grandma.html)

TSA's policy is to run children under the age of 12 through the scanner until the issue is resolved. Why didn't they do that this time?

because the child touched grandma who was not screened yet......

fucking asshats and none of it does a damn thing to make air travel safer....no intrusive pat down, no 3 oz liquids in a baggy, no shoe removal, no special unregulated xray, no new fancy machines makes us any safer.............but it does keep us in fear and fear IS a terror tactic..........so who is the terrorist?

[SugarFemme]

http://0.tqn.com/d/politicalhumor/1/0/A/p/3/Airport-Insecurity.jpg


http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_IfsvLILwMiE/TO86J_5DvMI/AAAAAAAAA6k/qnQ3tFNzxP8/s640/turkeytsa.jpg


http://0.tqn.com/d/politicalhumor/1/0/z/p/3/In-The-Mood-For-TSA.jpg

[Andrea]

TSA screeners charged in an L.A. drug trafficking probe

http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/04/25/tsa_screeners_charged_in_la_drug_trafficking_probe/ (http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2012/04/25/tsa_screeners_charged_in_la_drug_trafficking_probe/)

If the screeners will help with drug trafficking for money, what's to keep them from helping terrorists too?

[Andrea]

TSA pat down on 7-year old with cerebral palsy causes family to miss flight.

http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/04/25/family-misses-flight-after-tsa-gives-pat-down-to-girl-with-cerebral-palsy/ (http://washington.cbslocal.com/2012/04/25/family-misses-flight-after-tsa-gives-pat-down-to-girl-with-cerebral-palsy/)

If this child was dangerous enough to require she return to the security point for additional screening, why wasn't there a terminal dump? She could have done anything in the time between being released and being recalled.

[Andrea]

TSA screeners are being hired without the background checks completed:

http://www.wsbtv.com/news/news/local/tsa-bypasses-background-checks-new-hires/nMhrw/ (http://www.wsbtv.com/news/news/local/tsa-bypasses-background-checks-new-hires/nMhrw/)

[Andrea]

Blogger reports on his mother-in-laws experience with the TSA: There's an anomaly in the crotch area.

http://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2012/04/tsa-to-my-mother-in-law-theres-an-anomaly-in-the-crotch-area/256450/ (http://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2012/04/tsa-to-my-mother-in-law-theres-an-anomaly-in-the-crotch-area/256450/)

[Andrea]

Improperly inspected baby causes airport shutdown.

http://gothamist.com/2012/04/27/improperly_inspected_baby_causes_ne.php (http://gothamist.com/2012/04/27/improperly_inspected_baby_causes_ne.php)

[Andrea]

Man detained after baggage triggers bomb scare and causes a full terminal dump. Except that the scary item was a water filtration system......

http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2012/04/27/terminal-2-evacuated-at-msp-airport/ (http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2012/04/27/terminal-2-evacuated-at-msp-airport/)

[Andrea]

People in Houston clearly unhappy about BusSafe, a program designed to become routine in which TSA and law enforcement officers board buses, question passengers, and go through their bags. All in the name of stopping terrorists.

http://www.infowars.com/houstonians-revolt-over-tsa-on-buses/ (http://www.infowars.com/houstonians-revolt-over-tsa-on-buses/)

[Andrea]

Will the next phase be cavity searches?

http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/officials-fear-terrorists-body-bombs-us-bound-planes/story?id=16245827#.T59DrtXEN5p (http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/officials-fear-terrorists-body-bombs-us-bound-planes/story?id=16245827#.T59DrtXEN5p)

[Toughy]

The cavity search, like the backscatter and invasive pat-down, is just for fun doncha know??? Remember the underwear bombing would have passed backscatter as well as metal detectors.

These explosive devices are being surgically implanted in the abdomen. I'm gonna bet you can see it on backscatter......bazinga as Sheldon says........justification for more of those things....they have to be at least 1/4 million a piece...somebody is gonna make a bunch o money.....

and workers and travelers are being exposed to un-monitered back scatter xrays. If those things were in a hospital, workers and frequent flyers would be wearing those little badges I would think./kicks

your very own tax payer funded terrorists at work......

[aishah]

recently i've had several so-so experiences in the kansas city airport, and pretty good experiences in miami (again) and atlanta. just got through security in atlanta and they gave me my cane back before i even had to go through the metal detector, and didn't force me to do the full-body scanner. on the downside, i had to stand in an enormously long line which was really painful (sometimes they allow me to go in the shorter line so i don't have to stand) - but it's my own fault, i should have just gotten a wheelchair.

my bag did get searched a couple of times in kansas city and miami - i think it's because i have a beaded worry pouch necklace with an arrowhead attached to it, it might have showed up as a sharp object on the scanner or something. they didn't confiscate anything, but it was pretty inconvenient.

[Andrea]

recently i've had several so-so experiences in the kansas city airport, and pretty good experiences in miami (again) and atlanta. just got through security in atlanta and they gave me my cane back before i even had to go through the metal detector, and didn't force me to do the full-body scanner. on the downside, i had to stand in an enormously long line which was really painful (sometimes they allow me to go in the shorter line so i don't have to stand) - but it's my own fault, i should have just gotten a wheelchair.

my bag did get searched a couple of times in kansas city and miami - i think it's because i have a beaded worry pouch necklace with an arrowhead attached to it, it might have showed up as a sharp object on the scanner or something. they didn't confiscate anything, but it was pretty inconvenient.

Do you feel safer going through these procedures? Would you not fly if these procedures were not in place?

[aishah]

Do you feel safer going through these procedures? Would you not fly if these procedures were not in place?

i thought i might have answered these questions in my earlier posts in this thread, but maybe i didn't. personally, the security practices of tsa don't make me feel safe - they often make me feel explicitly unsafe, actually, because i've been exposed to different kinds of discrimination by tsa due to being disabled and muslim. (i have similar mistrustful feelings towards tsa agents as towards police, though perhaps not as strong.) i worry more about feeling unsafe around tsa agents than i do around fellow passengers, to be honest. even if i were seriously concerned about being harmed by another passenger, i don't believe the current security practices are very effective to prevent that from happening.

as long as i can physically withstand the security and boarding processes, i would fly no matter what security procedures are in place because i need to for work. although it can be painful and aggravating to travel this way, it's nowhere near as painful and aggravating (not to mention time-consuming) as the alternative methods of travel.

not to mention aside from security practices and some of the hardship i go through trying to board/de-plane as a disabled person, i actually really enjoy flying and spending time in airports.

when i say "so-so" or "good" experiences with tsa, i mean that i got through the security checkpoint with a minimum of discrimination and aggravation/pain/suffering. (i.e. i made it through without getting patted down multiple times or in intrusive ways, having my mobility aids and luggage taken from me, or being questioned.) not that i actually think the policies or procedures were terribly good or effective.

[Andrea]

i thought i might have answered these questions in my earlier posts in this thread, but maybe i didn't. personally, the security practices of tsa don't make me feel safe - they often make me feel explicitly unsafe, actually, because i've been exposed to different kinds of discrimination by tsa due to being disabled and muslim. (i have similar mistrustful feelings towards tsa agents as towards police, though perhaps not as strong.) i worry more about feeling unsafe around tsa agents than i do around fellow passengers, to be honest. even if i were seriously concerned about being harmed by another passenger, i don't believe the current security practices are very effective to prevent that from happening.

as long as i can physically withstand the security and boarding processes, i would fly no matter what security procedures are in place because i need to for work. although it can be painful and aggravating to travel this way, it's nowhere near as painful and aggravating (not to mention time-consuming) as the alternative methods of travel.

not to mention aside from security practices and some of the hardship i go through trying to board/de-plane as a disabled person, i actually really enjoy flying and spending time in airports.

when i say "so-so" or "good" experiences with tsa, i mean that i got through the security checkpoint with a minimum of discrimination and aggravation/pain/suffering. (i.e. i made it through without getting patted down multiple times or in intrusive ways, having my mobility aids and luggage taken from me, or being questioned.) not that i actually think the policies or procedures were terribly good or effective.

Thank you, aishah. You did previously reply to similar questions. I was asking about your more recent travels and should have been more specific.

[aishah]

Thank you, aishah. You did previously reply to similar questions. I was asking about your more recent travels and should have been more specific.

i think they're really interesting questions, though! i never stopped to wonder before how many people would refuse to fly if tsa weren't doing this or changed their practices. i wouldn't, but it makes me wonder if others would.

[Andrea]

Elderly Man Arrested at JFK for Hiding Knife in Walker

Good catch... or is it? First, if the picture is the actual walker/butter knife, it isn't actually hidden. Second, and more important, the TSA website indicates butter knives are the exception to the no knife rule http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm (http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm)

http://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20120503/jamaica/elderly-man-arrested-at-jfk-for-hiding-knife-walker (http://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/20120503/jamaica/elderly-man-arrested-at-jfk-for-hiding-knife-walker)

[Scuba]

I have to get on a plane or two this coming Saturday...I loathe the checkpoints. I'm bringing one backpack and a carry on...some clothes and my laptop. Never a dull moment when they look at my name and then look at me :|

[Andrea]

I have to get on a plane or two this coming Saturday...I loathe the checkpoints. I'm bringing one backpack and a carry on...some clothes and my laptop. Never a dull moment when they look at my name and then look at me :|

I hope all goes well and without any long waits or hassles.

[Andrea]

Let me see if I understand this... The TSA can take swabs of me and my carry on but they can't swab unattended baggage at the airport.... Isn't the unattended baggage more likely to be of danger than I am?

http://articles.burbankleader.com/2012-05-05/news/tn-blr-0506-airport-in-flap-on-bag-swabs_1_tsa-bomb-squad-bob-hope-airport (http://articles.burbankleader.com/2012-05-05/news/tn-blr-0506-airport-in-flap-on-bag-swabs_1_tsa-bomb-squad-bob-hope-airport)

[Andrea]

The purpose of TSA is what it does

http://tsanewsblog.com/2694/news/the-purpose-of-tsa-is-what-it-does/ (http://tsanewsblog.com/2694/news/the-purpose-of-tsa-is-what-it-does/)

[Andrea]

Homeland Security Concedes Airport Body Scanner ‘Vulnerabilities’

http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2012/05/body-scanner-vulnerabilities/ (http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2012/05/body-scanner-vulnerabilities/)

Why would I subject myself to possible radiation exposure when the very expensive, assume the arrest position, machine has built in "vulnerabilities"?

[Andrea]

Teen Blames TSA For Broken Insulin Pump
Diabetic Teen: $10,000 Pump Ruined By TSA Full Body Scan

http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/31025318/detail.html (http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/31025318/detail.html)

[Andrea]

TSA equipment gathering dust, House investigators say

"The Transportation Security Administration has shelved $184 million in security equipment in a Texas warehouse rather than in the airports for which it was bought, according to a report compiled by House Republican investigators."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/tsa-equipment-gathering-dust-house-investigators-say/2012/05/08/gIQAaG9WBU_story.html (http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/tsa-equipment-gathering-dust-house-investigators-say/2012/05/08/gIQAaG9WBU_story.html)

$184 million is a lot of tax payer dollars to waste.

[Andrea]

Baby, 18 months old, ordered off plane at Fort Lauderdale airport

http://www.wpbf.com/news/south-florida/Baby-18-months-old-ordered-off-plane-at-Fort-Lauderdale-airport/-/8788880/13038550/-/fhxhp7/-/index.html (http://www.wpbf.com/news/south-florida/Baby-18-months-old-ordered-off-plane-at-Fort-Lauderdale-airport/-/8788880/13038550/-/fhxhp7/-/index.html)

What type of people are we becoming??

[Andrea]

Congress: full-body airport scanners wouldn’t have caught underwear bomber

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/crotch_shot_JLywYxecALEXuc4pNcMUWN#ixzz1uS41chdo (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/crotch_shot_JLywYxecALEXuc4pNcMUWN#ixzz1uS41chdo)

[Andrea]

A TSA cover up??? Why yes, it sure appears to be.

http://www.federalnewsradio.com/?nid=473&sid=2859566 (http://www.federalnewsradio.com/?nid=473&sid=2859566)

[Andrea]

Report: Security breaches underreported by TSA

http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2012/05/report_nearly_half_of_security.html (http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2012/05/report_nearly_half_of_security.html)

[Andrea]

Up close and personal with the TSA

Eloquent piece about the damage tsa continues to inflict.

http://www.jewishjournal.com/cover_story/article/up_close_and_personal_with_the_tsa_20120515/ (http://www.jewishjournal.com/cover_story/article/up_close_and_personal_with_the_tsa_20120515/)

[Andrea]

Employee arrested at New York's Kennedy Airport for stealing items meant for U.S. troops overseas

http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/employee-arrested-york-kennedy-airport-stealing-items-meant-u-s-troops-overseas-article-1.1079528 (http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/employee-arrested-york-kennedy-airport-stealing-items-meant-u-s-troops-overseas-article-1.1079528)

And he was vetted by ..... you guessed it... The TSA.

[Andrea]

TSA executive admits not a single terrorist-related arrest has resulted from whole-body scanners

http://tsanewsblog.com/3160/news/tsa-executive-admits-not-a-single-terrorist-related-arrest-has-resulted-from-whole-body-scanners/ (http://tsanewsblog.com/3160/news/tsa-executive-admits-not-a-single-terrorist-related-arrest-has-resulted-from-whole-body-scanners/)

[Andrea]

The future of TSA security?

http://cdn.svcs.c2.uclick.com/c2/362...5b?width=450.0 (http://cdn.svcs.c2.uclick.com/c2/362...5b?width=450.0)

[Andrea]

No-fly list center of debate in federal court appeal in Portland

http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2012/05/no-fly_list_center_of_debate_i.html (http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2012/05/no-fly_list_center_of_debate_i.html)

[Andrea]

Which do you prefer to support TSA? Additional fees or cuts in funding?

Senate Dems back increase in air travel fee to close funding shortfall at TSA

http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/appropriations/228835-senate-moves-forward-with-increased-airline-passenger-fees (http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/appropriations/228835-senate-moves-forward-with-increased-airline-passenger-fees)

[Andrea]

Priest Removed From Ministry Due To Sex Abuse Allegations Now Works At PHL

http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2012/05/24/i-team-priest-removed-from-ministry-due-to-sex-abuse-allegations-works-at-phl/ (http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2012/05/24/i-team-priest-removed-from-ministry-due-to-sex-abuse-allegations-works-at-phl/)

I have no doubt his resume was impressive.....

[Andrea]

Information regarding ex-priest now working for TSA:

Harkins Thomas M. 1971 P Sued Dioscean Named in 1994 RICO civil suit filed in Camden. Allegation of abuse of girl in 1979-80. Sent for therapy. 2nd allegation. Both settled for total of $195K. Church did not report allegation to police per state law. Sent for treatment on other occasions. Active until 2002 when permanently removed. Woman filed suit 5/16/12 alleging abuse on multiple occasions in 1980 and 1981 at St. Anthony of Padua in Hammondton. Camden, NJ Source:
Philadelphia Inquirer 10.16.05; Courier Post 5.17.12

[Andrea]

TSA VIPR Team Spotted at… Detroit Music Festival??

http://tsaoutofourpants.wordpress.com/2012/05/26/tsa-vipr-team-spotted-at-detroit-music-festival/ (http://tsaoutofourpants.wordpress.com/2012/05/26/tsa-vipr-team-spotted-at-detroit-music-festival/)

[Andrea]

This is about DHS, not TSA, but shows the mission creep by the agency.

Revealed: Hundreds of words to avoid using online if you don't want the government spying on you (and they include 'pork', 'cloud' and 'Mexico')

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2150281/REVEALED-Hundreds-words-avoid-using-online-dont-want-government-spying-you.html?ICO=most_read_module (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2150281/REVEALED-Hundreds-words-avoid-using-online-dont-want-government-spying-you.html?ICO=most_read_module)

[Andrea]

TSA’s $1 billion program to ‘read’ fliers’ expressions comes under fire after failing to catch any bad guys

http://www.thedaily.com/page/2012/05/27/052712-news-tsa-behavior-detection-1-3/ (http://www.thedaily.com/page/2012/05/27/052712-news-tsa-behavior-detection-1-3/)

[Toughy]

TSA’s $1 billion program to ‘read’ fliers’ expressions comes under fire after failing to catch any bad guys

http://www.thedaily.com/page/2012/05/27/052712-news-tsa-behavior-detection-1-3/ (http://www.thedaily.com/page/2012/05/27/052712-news-tsa-behavior-detection-1-3/)

Why oh why don't we just go talk to the Israeli folks and do what they do????

[Andrea]

Why oh why don't we just go talk to the Israeli folks and do what they do????

Follow the money!

[Andrea]

5 Things The TSA Doesn't Want You To See (VIDEO)

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/christopher-elliott/5-things-the-tsa-doesnt-want-video_b_1551218.html (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/christopher-elliott/5-things-the-tsa-doesnt-want-video_b_1551218.html)

[Andrea]

How much do we really hate the TSA?

http://www.cnn.com/2012/06/01/travel/tsa-complaints/index.html (http://www.cnn.com/2012/06/01/travel/tsa-complaints/index.html)

[Hollylane]

I recently traveled to Virginia, via PDX, and ORF. In the past, I have always been put through the full pat down due to an artificial knee.

PDX

No pat down. Efficient, attentive staff, full body scan. In and out, no fuss no muss. No conversation.

ORF

Full pat down. Friendly, cheerful, animated, empathetic, and attentive staff. In and out, no fuss no muss.


Personally, I preferred the full body scan. I was in and out, there was no "Female assist" announcement. I was on my way quickly, and in my opinion, I am not offended at all by the full body scan. I can see where it could be a problem for people with medical devices that could be harmed by this, but there were people there that were quickly moved to the pat down area, and were advised helpfully that they can now get some type of travel document to provide to TSA about their devices. Also, on the TSA website, they had options for persons who have been sexually traumatized.

Overall, I feel that the TSA is there for excellent reasons. I feel safer with them there, and I am happy to comply. There are always going to be bad employees in any job, and rules that need tweaking.

Realistically, the people who want to harm others, are likely to continue to seek ways to get past TSA, so I expect them to be vigilant, even if this inconveniences me or makes me a little uncomfortable.

[Andrea]

I recently traveled to Virginia, via PDX, and ORF. In the past, I have always been put through the full pat down due to an artificial knee.

PDX

No pat down. Efficient, attentive staff, full body scan. In and out, no fuss no muss. No conversation.

ORF

Full pat down. Friendly, cheerful, animated, empathetic, and attentive staff. In and out, no fuss no muss.


Personally, I preferred the full body scan. I was in and out, there was no "Female assist" announcement. I was on my way quickly, and in my opinion, I am not offended at all by the full body scan. I can see where it could be a problem for people with medical devices that could be harmed by this, but there were people there that were quickly moved to the pat down area, and were advised helpfully that they can now get some type of travel document to provide to TSA about their devices. Also, on the TSA website, they had options for persons who have been sexually traumatized.

Overall, I feel that the TSA is there for excellent reasons. I feel safer with them there, and I am happy to comply. There are always going to be bad employees in any job, and rules that need tweaking.

Realistically, the people who want to harm others, are likely to continue to seek ways to get past TSA, so I expect them to be vigilant, even if this inconveniences me or makes me a little uncomfortable.


Thank you for telling your experience.

I would also like to know if you have any concerns, or if you have looked into, the medical issues the backscatter machine might cause. The backscatter machines were banned in Europe due to the health concerns. Link (http://healthland.time.com/2011/11/21/europe-bans-airport-x-ray-scanners-should-the-u-s-follow-suit/)

The other question I have is if you are aware that items can pass unseen through the backscatter machine? http://tsaoutofourpants.wordpress.com/2012/03/06/1b-of-nude-body-scanners-made-worthless-by-blog-how-anyone-can-get-anything-past-the-tsas-nude-body-scanners/ (http://tsaoutofourpants.wordpress.com/2012/03/06/1b-of-nude-body-scanners-made-worthless-by-blog-how-anyone-can-get-anything-past-the-tsas-nude-body-scanners/)

Would you feel less secure, possibly even no longer flying, if passengers were able to bring water and other liquids on the plane, wear shoes through screening, and only pass through the metal detector?

Again, thank you for contributing to the conversation.

[Hollylane]

Thank you for telling your experience.

I would also like to know if you have any concerns, or if you have looked into, the medical issues the backscatter machine might cause. The backscatter machines were banned in Europe due to the health concerns. Link (http://healthland.time.com/2011/11/21/europe-bans-airport-x-ray-scanners-should-the-u-s-follow-suit/)

The other question I have is if you are aware that items can pass unseen through the backscatter machine? http://tsaoutofourpants.wordpress.com/2012/03/06/1b-of-nude-body-scanners-made-worthless-by-blog-how-anyone-can-get-anything-past-the-tsas-nude-body-scanners/ (http://tsaoutofourpants.wordpress.com/2012/03/06/1b-of-nude-body-scanners-made-worthless-by-blog-how-anyone-can-get-anything-past-the-tsas-nude-body-scanners/)

Would you feel less secure, possibly even no longer flying, if passengers were able to bring water and other liquids on the plane, wear shoes through screening, and only pass through the metal detector?

Again, thank you for contributing to the conversation.


I would continue to fly regardless, I think that I face more risks and inconveniences in driving my car to work daily, than flying (this includes health and safety). I think that they are continuing to develop new technology, and are likely to fix current technology issues as they come up.

Passengers can, and do bring liquids onto the plane, but they are purchased after passing through TSA. I don't think that is likely to change, but who knows.

The imaging machine that I passed through at PDX was a Millimeter Wave Unit. Based on continuing research, this seems to be the safer of the two as far as repeated exposure. I think that if I encountered the Backscatter Unit, I would request a pat down.

[Andrea]

TSA waste and fraud

http://tsanewsblog.com/3298/news/tsa-waste-and-fraud/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+tsanewsblog%2FAzgs+%28TSA+New s%29 (http://tsanewsblog.com/3298/news/tsa-waste-and-fraud/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+tsanewsblog%2FAzgs+%28TSA+New s%29)

[Kobi]

Why oh why don't we just go talk to the Israeli folks and do what they do????


Among other things Israeli airport security involves stringent racial profiling, something that didnt fly (pun intended) here.

[Ciaran]

Would you feel less secure, possibly even no longer flying, if passengers were able to bring water and other liquids on the plane, wear shoes through screening, and only pass through the metal detector?


Although, in the US, my experience has been that I inevitably need to remove shoes passing through security, in Europe it is much less consistent. In general, across Europe, passengers are not required to remove their shoes or, in some instances, to remove their shoes if they have large in-built heels.


Regarding bringing liquids through security. Obviously the banning of these liquids only took effect in summer of 2006 (I remember it well as I was due to fly to Asia that day) but there is now an impetus in the UK to reverse this ban. I think a reversal of the "no liquids" ban is to be piloted shortly.

[justkim]

I have had the opportunity to fly several times in the past few years. As far as getting through security I have not had any real problems, unless you count the time when I was wearing a pair of jeans that had rivets that set off the alarm thing and I did get to have my purse dumped out because I had a key chain that was what I suspected made of a lead type material. They didn't even put the stuff back in my purse... Jerks! lol.. As far as taking liquid through this is what I have done with regards to taking something to drink. I own several cups with lids and straws in some cases, most if not all of the vendors that you encounter after the security gates will let you fill your cup with ice and water. I even have had flight attendants tell me that was a great idea, one even tried to steal my Starbucks straw cup. I told her she needed to get her own.lol. I will be flying again real soon and I will definitely taking my cup with me. TSA had no problem with me bringing my cup through security, they too said it was a good idea as long as it was empty.
I hope my trip in late July goes smoothly on the trip coming back to Colorado. I know leaving here will be easy enough, it is the other airport that I am worrying about.

[Andrea]

SDSU Student Back Home After Detour Over ‘No-Fly’ List Status

http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/06/08/sdsu-student-back-home-after-detour-over-no-fly-list-status/ (http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2012/06/08/sdsu-student-back-home-after-detour-over-no-fly-list-status/)

[Andrea]

TSA Wants to Taste your Post-Checkpoint Drink

http://wewontfly.com/tsa-wants-to-taste-your-post-checkpoint-drink (http://wewontfly.com/tsa-wants-to-taste-your-post-checkpoint-drink)

[Andrea]

TSA Invades Chicago Union Station

http://johnconner1984.wordpress.com/2012/07/09/tsa-invades-chicago-union-station/ (http://johnconner1984.wordpress.com/2012/07/09/tsa-invades-chicago-union-station/)

The day after Independence Day, TSA is at the Chicago rail station. So much for independence and for 'if you don't like it, don't fly'.

[Andrea]

Man accused of impersonating airline employee at Eppley

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/checkpoints-borders-policy-debate/1364071-man-accused-impersonating-airline-employee-oma.html (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/checkpoints-borders-policy-debate/1364071-man-accused-impersonating-airline-employee-oma.html)

Court documents obtained by the KETV NewsWatch 7's I-Team detailed allegations made by an FBI special agent, which show that Foster pretended to be a United Airlines employee at Eppley Airfield for six weeks starting in April 2012. Foster is accused of accessing secured areas and computers at Eppley Airfield, according to the court documents.

[*Anya*]

I have traveled a bit lately. Different experiences different airports.

One airport- no problem with sealed bottle of liquid med, with prescription written and signed by my MD. TSA told me it was great it was factory sealed.

Another airport, same med, same script, same seal: got me a public pat down in front of everyone in the security line. No offer of privacy, crotch and breasts included. Embarrassing, even if it was a TSA butch dyke doing the body check.

Third airport-TSA was happy it was unsealed this time. Checked it to make sure not explosives, no problem.

Three airports. Three different rules/treatments. Consistency would be nice.

Different treatment this past week, continued:

Flew out of Long Beach, told them about liquid med-TSA did the explosives test.

Flew out of Oakland, told them about liquid med, TSA did not even take it out of the baggie. Checked the label against my boarding pass and waved me through.

Consistency would still be nice.

[Andrea]

What Happens To Liquids Surrendered At Airport Security

http://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewbender/2012/07/11/what-happens-to-liquids-surrendered-at-airport-security/ (http://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewbender/2012/07/11/what-happens-to-liquids-surrendered-at-airport-security/)

It isn't too dangerous to sit in a barrel at the secure area but it must be disposed of as if it is. And at what expense?

[Andrea]

Grandmother: 'Humiliated' by TSA on Way to Mayo Clinic

http://kstp.com/news/stories/S2695022.shtml?cat=1 (http://kstp.com/news/stories/S2695022.shtml?cat=1)

Why would anyone think it is okay to touch someone's feeding tube?

[Andrea]

TSA TROUBLE: Disabled Man Points Finger At TSA

http://www.informationliberation.com/?id=40261&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter (http://www.informationliberation.com/?id=40261&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

[Andrea]

Will TSA soon be looking through all your papers, cell phones and computers?

TSA: Search your iPhone? Yes we can!

http://tsaoutofourpants.wordpress.com/2012/07/23/tsa-we-can-read-any-document-paper-or-digital-we-find-in-your-bags/ (http://tsaoutofourpants.wordpress.com/2012/07/23/tsa-we-can-read-any-document-paper-or-digital-we-find-in-your-bags/)

[Andrea]

TSA Expands Invasion To CA Train Stations & Bus Terminals

http://www.prisonplanet.com/tsa-expands-invasion-to-ca-train-stations-bus-terminals.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter (http://www.prisonplanet.com/tsa-expands-invasion-to-ca-train-stations-bus-terminals.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

The TSA is looking for terrorists in train and bus stations?? I don't think so!

[Andrea]

TSA officer charged with terrorizing, domestic violence

http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/368488/group/News/ (http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/368488/group/News/)

[Andrea]

Cato Institute’s anti-TSA petition goes viral

http://redalertpolitics.com/2012/07/12/cato-institutes-anti-tsa-petition-goes-viral/ (http://redalertpolitics.com/2012/07/12/cato-institutes-anti-tsa-petition-goes-viral/)

"According to the petition, the TSA was ordered by a federal court in July 2011 to perform a “notice-and-comment rulemaking” on their use of new “Advanced Imaging Technology” as part of airport security screening.

Essentially, TSA was supposed to publish all the details pertaining to the practice of this advanced imaging screening process and take into account reaction from the public before putting the new technology into use.

Now, one year later, Cato reports that the TSA has yet to even begin the process."

[Andrea]

Flight Diverted Over Unclaimed Camera

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/07/flight-diverted-over-unclaimed-camera/ (http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/07/flight-diverted-over-unclaimed-camera/)

http://www.examiner.com/article/bomb-scare-on-board-united-airlines-flight-956-triggers-two-emergencies (http://www.examiner.com/article/bomb-scare-on-board-united-airlines-flight-956-triggers-two-emergencies)

Really? Over a forgotten camera? When did we go from thinking of ourselves as the strongest, bravest nation to being so scared of our shadows?

[Andrea]

Cross posting my confession:

I confess my heart is heavy for the people of Milwaukee.

I confess my heart was, and is, heavy for the people of Colorado.

I confess my heart is heavy for a friend battling breast cancer.

I confess my heart is heavy for those families that have lost someone due to another person driving under the influence.

I confess so much loss from mental illness, cancer and DUIs, and yet our government spends billions on fighting terrorism at our airports, train stations, and bus stations.

I confess some facts to chew on:
Deaths from terrorism since 9/11 (10 years) - 3033
Deaths from breast cancer in 2011 - 39,520 (est)
Deaths from DUIs in 2010 - 32,885
Deaths from homicide in 2011 - 16,799

I confess that is 89,204 deaths in one year compared to 3,033 over 10 years.

I confess this doesn't include death by other cancers, working in unsafe conditions, starvation, lack of medical treatment for treatable illnesses, etc.

I confess 2012 TSA budget: $7.85 Billion

I confess no death should be taken lightly and it is not my intent to say we shouldn't always remember the tragedy of 9/11.

I confess what we, the goverment, are spending our tax dollars on doesn't work for me.

I confess putting away my soapbox now.

[Andrea]

Ex-TSA workers indicted in airport drug-smuggling

http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/ex-tsa-workers-indicted-1493185.html (http://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta/ex-tsa-workers-indicted-1493185.html)

They weren't 'ex' workers at the time of the drug smuggling......

[Toughy]

Are there data on the percentage of these incidents? I'm wondering if a lot of this crap is occurring at specific airports more often than at others. Is this about management of specific TSA locations?

I just went through airport security and was treated very well and very respectfully. I was not touched in any inappropriate way. This was at airports in Medford OR and Midland TX. (yeah yeah podunk airports going to podunk towns) It could have been much worse as my last name was spelled incorrectly on my boarding pass and I walk with a cane..........an obvious typo using 's' instead of 'a'.

[Andrea]

Are there data on the percentage of these incidents? I'm wondering if a lot of this crap is occurring at specific airports more often than at others. Is this about management of specific TSA locations?

I just went through airport security and was treated very well and very respectfully. I was not touched in any inappropriate way. This was at airports in Medford OR and Midland TX. (yeah yeah podunk airports going to podunk towns) It could have been much worse as my last name was spelled incorrectly on my boarding pass and I walk with a cane..........an obvious typo using 's' instead of 'a'.

Are you asking for a percentage of incidents to the number of people that go through security on a daily basis? No, there is no data for that because not everyone reports what happens out of fear of retaliation, embarrassment, denial (sounds a bit like a rape victim....hmmmmm).

The percentage of TSA employees charged with a crime to the number of TSA employees appears to be around 1% of 65,000 in 2011. One percent doesn't seem like much until you look at the heinousness of the crimes committed by the same people that look at our personal belongings, touch our bodies, and determine if we have the right to fly today.

No, the incidents are not specific to any airports, although many of the flyers I know agree that certain airports are worse than others for the flyers due, in part, to TSA power trips.

It is great that you did not experience any inappropriate touching and that you were treated respectfully, however, please remember how many times someone is arrested for molestation, murder, drugs, etc., only to have neighbors and family say he is such a nice person, I can't believe he acted that way.

Millions of flyers may go through TSA checkpoints with no problem, or at least not enough of a problem to complain about, but does that make the one time your mother, sister, spouse, child... was treated inappropriately, tolerable?

What would be an acceptable percentage of inappropriate behavior?

Thank you for your question, Toughy. Please let me know if I did not provide the information you were looking for.

[Andrea]

TSA officers allege racial profiling at Logan

http://bostonglobe.com/metro/2012/08/11/tsa-officers-allege-racial-profiling-logan/oj8AHKCddiUpnTmWgf0mxK/story.html (http://bostonglobe.com/metro/2012/08/11/tsa-officers-allege-racial-profiling-logan/oj8AHKCddiUpnTmWgf0mxK/story.html)

[Andrea]

Begin hearings on the use of full body scanners by the TSA, per the finding in EPIC v. DHS, No. 10-1157

https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/begin-hearings-use-full-body-scanners-tsa-finding-epic-v-dhs-no-10-1157/7YpJKlKl (https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/begin-hearings-use-full-body-scanners-tsa-finding-epic-v-dhs-no-10-1157/7YpJKlKl)

If you already signed this, please consider signing again. Somehow the petition was taken down on the site and we are starting at zero.

[Toughy]

Andrea............

I am solutions oriented and that was the reason for my question. If you go back and read my posts in this thread (and others) you will find I am not a fan of how we conduct airport security in the US.

Thanks for the info.............by the way do you have a link for your data>

[DamonK]

Flew recently from PDX to Detroit. No problems either way. Only thing was I forgot to take off my tags before going through scanner, so TSA asked me about it and asked if it was ok if they patted me down. Very upper top, near collar bone and up, down sides and down sides of legs.

No big deal. Respectful and nice

[alexri]

Not an attempt to hijack/steal this thread... a serious question and I thought this was the best place to post...

But has anyone had any issues with strapons/feeldoes in their luggage? I'm thinking putting my gear in my checked bag, and I'm definitely not packing while flying because I just don't want to deal with it.

I've always opted for pat-downs. I refuse go to through the xray machines because I fly so much. I can average 8-10 flights a month during my busy race season. The TSA people always tell me it's no worse than the equivalent of getting an xray at the dentist. Then I ask them if they would get 10-20 xrays a month.

Sometimes the TSA staff is rude when I opt out because they're already busy and have to call someone over to do it.

[Andrea]

Not an attempt to hijack/steal this thread... a serious question and I thought this was the best place to post...

But has anyone had any issues with strapons/feeldoes in their luggage? I'm thinking putting my gear in my checked bag, and I'm definitely not packing while flying because I just don't want to deal with it.

I've always opted for pat-downs. I refuse go to through the xray machines because I fly so much. I can average 8-10 flights a month during my busy race season. The TSA people always tell me it's no worse than the equivalent of getting an xray at the dentist. Then I ask them if they would get 10-20 xrays a month.

Sometimes the TSA staff is rude when I opt out because they're already busy and have to call someone over to do it.

What do you mean by "issues"?

I doubt TSA would confiscate... er... request that you voluntarily surrender them if found in your carry on but they might pull them out and expose your personal belongings to others. If you put them in your checked bag, the worse that would happen is they could be taken by the baggage inspectors.

[Andrea]

Andrea............

I am solutions oriented and that was the reason for my question. If you go back and read my posts in this thread (and others) you will find I am not a fan of how we conduct airport security in the US.

Thanks for the info.............by the way do you have a link for your data>

I remember your posts in this thread. I hope I didn't say something to make you think I found your question offensive or ..... something. I am happy to answer any questions.

I get my links from reading CNN.com and other news sources, as well as TSA forums at flyertalk.com (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/checkpoints-borders-policy-debate-687/) and travelunderground.org (http://www.travelunderground.org/index.php?forums/aviation-passenger-security-in-the-usa.8/).

Or are you asking for a specific link for specific data?

[alexri]

What do you mean by "issues"?

I doubt TSA would confiscate... er... request that you voluntarily surrender them if found in your carry on but they might pull them out and expose your personal belongings to others. If you put them in your checked bag, the worse that would happen is they could be taken by the baggage inspectors.

I guess my concern about issues would be confiscation/removal of any objects, (excuse my bluntness but it's necessary) such as one's strap on, feeldoe, handcuffs, etc. anything packed in a checked-bag. I know to take the batteries out of anything (I do in storage anyway) to prevent something from vibrating if accidentally switched on, thus causing a suspicious bag issue. From the research/checking I've done, the best thing I can think of is to pack items in plastic ziplock bags and put in check in luggage.

Quite frankly I don't trust the TSA. There have been issues in my home airport with TSA agents being caught taking thousands of dollars of jewelry, electronics, etc. out of people's bags. And with the maturity of some of the officers I've seen here, I'm really debating whether or not to bring anything. Just wondering if anyone's had their personal items disappear from checked bags.

[DamonK]

Nothing disappeared from mine. Even though my bag tore.

I packed my strap on with no problem. I wouldn't pack handcuffs though.

[Andrea]

Taking Pictures at the Checkpoint directly from the TSA website http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/taking_pictures.shtm (http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/taking_pictures.shtm)

"TSA does not prohibit the public, passengers or press from photographing, videotaping or filming at security checkpoints, as long as the screening process is not interfered with or slowed down. We do ask you to not film or take pictures of the monitors. While the TSA does not prohibit photographs at screening locations, local laws, state statutes, or local ordinances might."

So why are the TSA clerks telling this person he can't film the searching of his bag and then not allowing him to fly?

O5kCLTjL3Is&

[Andrea]

In 2010, 1.73 million passengers flew per day.

Every week TSA posts the items 'found' the week before. You can read about it here: http://blog.tsa.gov/2012/08/tsa-week-in-review-passengers-continue.html (http://blog.tsa.gov/2012/08/tsa-week-in-review-passengers-continue.html)

8-3-12 through 8-9-12:
Firearms: 30: 24 loaded; 6 unloaded
7 artfully concealed prohibited items found at checkpoints


At 7.85 Billion a year budget, that's over $80,000 an object.

[Andrea]

TSA ‘Reaches’ Out at Paul Ryan Event

http://shark-tank.net/2012/08/18/tsa-reaches-out-at-paul-ryan-event/ (http://shark-tank.net/2012/08/18/tsa-reaches-out-at-paul-ryan-event/)

Upon arriving at Republican vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan’s first Florida stop in The Villages, Florida, we could help but notice that alongside Secret Service and the local Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, were members of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checking people’s belongings. A big WTF is in order here.

We heard that the TSA was going to expand its ummm, ‘reach,’ but to assist in political campaigns is quite the jump in broadening their ‘transportation security horizons.’ I counted no less than (6) TSA agents alongside the usual uniformed Secret Service detail-not to be confused with the ‘Men In Black’ looking agents.

[Andrea]

Lack of Studies, Questionable Safety of Full Body Airport X-Rays Continue to Raise Alarm

http://au.ibtimes.com/articles/375178/20120820/lack-studies-questionable-safety-full-body-airport.htm#.UDIuD6NG_Q3 (http://au.ibtimes.com/articles/375178/20120820/lack-studies-questionable-safety-full-body-airport.htm#.UDIuD6NG_Q3)

[Andrea]

Steve Gunn: Just say no when the TSA asks you to 'chat'

http://www.mlive.com/opinion/muskegon/index.ssf/2012/08/steve_gunn_37.html (http://www.mlive.com/opinion/muskegon/index.ssf/2012/08/steve_gunn_37.html)

Most of us have a point that something is no longer okay. To Steve Gunn this point was interrogation by a TSA BDO. Read his column by clicking the link above.

Many of us also have heard rumblings about what is to come... Maybe things we say "oh, that will never happen". I heard this comment when when I spoke of pat downs, private searches, etc.

I am curious. What is your breaking point? What would be that final straw for you? Would you be willing to apply to fly (Check Point) but not willing to submit to a body cavity search? Would you be willing to forgo carry on luggage but not willing to discuss the purpose of your travel with a BDO?

What is your limit to anything for security?

[Toughy]

Steve Gunn: Just say no when the TSA asks you to 'chat'

http://www.mlive.com/opinion/muskegon/index.ssf/2012/08/steve_gunn_37.html (http://www.mlive.com/opinion/muskegon/index.ssf/2012/08/steve_gunn_37.html)

Most of us have a point that something is no longer okay. To Steve Gunn this point was interrogation by a TSA BDO. Read his column by clicking the link above.

Many of us also have heard rumblings about what is to come... Maybe things we say "oh, that will never happen". I heard this comment when when I spoke of pat downs, private searches, etc.

I am curious. What is your breaking point? What would be that final straw for you? Would you be willing to apply to fly (Check Point) but not willing to submit to a body cavity search? Would you be willing to forgo carry on luggage but not willing to discuss the purpose of your travel with a BDO?

What is your limit to anything for security?

Actually I am in favor of trained competent agents talking with every passenger in the airport. That is part of Israeli airport security measures. It works the large majority of the time.. There are tell-tale signs to look for....and it's well documented in the research.

The incident described is textbook for how NOT to do this. Damn these folks make me nuts sometimes.


-------------------

I also must point out some fairly blatant sexism in the article:

He actually presented himself in the deceptive form of a young, attractive female officer,

What do any of those adjectives have to do with anything? Would he use any of those adjectives if it was not 'an attractive, female officer'. Would he have said it was an 'ugly old female officer'? A fat old man? A hot hunky young man.

WTF???

[Andrea]

Actually I am in favor of trained competent agents talking with every passenger in the airport. That is part of Israeli airport security measures. It works the large majority of the time.. There are tell-tale signs to look for....and it's well documented in the research.

The incident described is textbook for how NOT to do this. Damn these folks make me nuts sometimes.


-------------------

I also must point out some fairly blatant sexism in the article:

He actually presented himself in the deceptive form of a young, attractive female officer,

What do any of those adjectives have to do with anything? Would he use any of those adjectives if it was not 'an attractive, female officer'. Would he have said it was an 'ugly old female officer'? A fat old man? A hot hunky young man.

WTF???

I don't know enough about that form of security but I will say I don't think TSA trains their people well enough to do an adequate job. According to the following news article they receive four days of classroom training and three days of on the job training. If it were that easy, we would all do it.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-31727_162-20005566-10391695.html (http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-31727_162-20005566-10391695.html)

Oh, and I bet the security in Israel are not hired off pizza delivery boxes as the TSA agents are.

[Andrea]

What my father would have said about the TSA

http://tsanewsblog.com/5338/news/what-my-father-would-have-said-about-the-tsa/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+tsanewsblog/Azgs+%28TSA+News%29 (http://tsanewsblog.com/5338/news/what-my-father-would-have-said-about-the-tsa/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+tsanewsblog/Azgs+%28TSA+News%29)

This well written piece describes my feelings so well. Please take the time to read it.

[Andrea]

TSA agent admits detaining people is not really about airline safety


Poster's comment:
"This was inside the terminal at the Houston airport. I was not allowed to board a plane (even though I had already been through airport security) because I drank my water instead of letting the TSA "test" it. The TSA agent finally admitted that it wasn't because they thought I was a security risk-it was because they were mad at me!

I was able to get on the very next flight out of houston-and even managed an upgrade! (thanks United)

Sorry for crappy phone video-but the audio is what I wanted to post.

I know this is not really news (it seems like the TSA is retaliating all the time against people), but it was a little satisfying to get that statement on video."


gEii7dQUpy8

[Andrea]

TSA Worker Charged With Possession Of Child Porn

http://miami.cbslocal.com/2012/09/12/tsa-worker-charged-with-possession-of-child-porn/

[Andrea]

ABC News Tracks Missing iPad To Florida Home of TSA Officer

http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/abc-news-tracks-missing-ipad-florida-home-tsa/story?id=17331937#.UGWjR1GlvIU (http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/abc-news-tracks-missing-ipad-florida-home-tsa/story?id=17331937#.UGWjR1GlvIU)

Got to love how he threw his wife under the bus after being caught. LOL

[Andrea]

TSA hired defrocked Camden priest without background check

http://articles.philly.com/2012-10-01/news/34199381_1_tsa-camden-diocese-peter-feuerherd (http://articles.philly.com/2012-10-01/news/34199381_1_tsa-camden-diocese-peter-feuerherd)

[alexri]

So I have no problems flying with my "gear" in my checked bags last week. My bag was inspected at all three airports where I checked in and I got the TSA flyer about them checking my bag.

So my big debate is... on a future trip I will want to bring my stuff with me, but I really don't want to check a bag. Anyone put your toys in a carryon? I'm talking harness and c*ck here, nothing else.

[Toughy]

yep I have done the carry-on toys in the bag thing...........the worst that will happen is TSA will want to have a look see at them, which can be lots of fun.....laughin....I put mine in individual plastic bags in my carry on.

[Ginger]

I'm just curious. Why do people often write "cock" as "c*ck"?

I see it a lot on the site. Just wondering.

[Toughy]

I'm just curious. Why do people often write "cock" as "c*ck"?

I see it a lot on the site. Just wondering.

You will also see bitch as b*tch, whore as wh*re, cunt as c*nt....

it harkens back to the days of censoring certain words on public web sites.....and I think there are some sites today that will not let you say bitch or cock

either that or they think it's more polite........it's not like we don't know what the word is.......so I frankly do not see the point........

[Andrea]

TSA agent admits to stealing cash from passenger as punishment

http://tsanewsblog.com/6380/news/tsa-agent-admits-to-stealing-cash-from-passenger-as-punishment/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+tsanewsblog%2FAzgs+%28TSA+New s%29 (http://tsanewsblog.com/6380/news/tsa-agent-admits-to-stealing-cash-from-passenger-as-punishment/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+tsanewsblog%2FAzgs+%28TSA+New s%29)

[alexri]

I do not want to derail this conversation from what the thread is about so I will keep this short. I just wanted to respond to two posts. Who knows this may turn into a discussion on another thread.

I cannot speak for why other people use * to spell words like c*ck. But this is why I did, and why I actually have to do it right now. I was doing it because I was posting/replying at a location where posting certain words will set off a spam filter. I'm on the wireless at my car dealership and their system blocks certain things out. For some reason it won't block a page if certain words are written out but it knows when you type it. If some people feel the need to that's their concern and I wouldn't judge them for it (and I am not saying anyone was). Not pointing any fingers here, just offering a response.

[Andrea]

“Sir, you must come with us”

http://www.canadafreepress.com/index.php/article/50309 (http://www.canadafreepress.com/index.php/article/50309)

Traveler is stuck in Hawaii due to the No Fly List.

I hope this is not a factual article.

[Andrea]

TSA And Gender Profiling

http://www.countercurrents.org/mcelroy171012.htm (http://www.countercurrents.org/mcelroy171012.htm)

[Andrea]

Disturbing trend: TSA agents vandalizing travelers’ property

http://techmediatainment.blogspot.com/2012/10/disturbing-trend-tsa-agents-vandalizing.html?spref=tw (http://techmediatainment.blogspot.com/2012/10/disturbing-trend-tsa-agents-vandalizing.html?spref=tw)

[Andrea]

Queens Man Put on "No-Fly List" Stranded in Austria

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/checkpoints-borders-policy-debate/1398951-3-stranded-sudden-inclusion-no-fly-list.html (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/checkpoints-borders-policy-debate/1398951-3-stranded-sudden-inclusion-no-fly-list.html)

Convicted former Islamic charity director from US on no-fly list, stranded in Mideast

http://www.canada.com/mobile/news/world-news/Convicted+former+Islamic+charity+director+from+nof ly+list+stranded/7363695/story.html (http://www.canada.com/mobile/news/world-news/Convicted+former+Islamic+charity+director+from+nof ly+list+stranded/7363695/story.html)

[Andrea]

TSA Vendor Denies Faking Test of Body-Imaging Software

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-11-14/tsa-vendor-denies-faking-test-of-body-imaging-software (http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-11-14/tsa-vendor-denies-faking-test-of-body-imaging-software)

[Andrea]

TSA puts controversial scanners in storage

http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/2012/11/15/tsa-bodyscanners/1706811/ (http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/2012/11/15/tsa-bodyscanners/1706811/)

"......Texas warehouse, which now holds a total of $155 million in unused equipment awaiting either disposal or redeployment...."

[Andrea]

Steampunk art is now terrorism, according to the TSA

http://tsanewsblog.com/7452/news/steampunk-art-is-now-terrorism-according-to-the-tsa/ (http://tsanewsblog.com/7452/news/steampunk-art-is-now-terrorism-according-to-the-tsa/)

".....the Oakland airport said a man’s artistic watch could be used to make a timing device for a bomb."

[Andrea]

TSA 'Viper' team makes appearance in Emeryville

http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news/local/east_bay&id=8957075 (http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news/local/east_bay&id=8957075)

Possibly because I don't have that mindset, but I don't see how a train, running on a track, could be a useful terrorist tactic.

How much did this TSA show cost us?

[curlyredhead]

Ok so I have an interesting thing happening. As most people know I just recently had my lower surgery. One of the reasons I chose to stay local in Plano, TX was so I didn't have to deal with the TSA. I have heard horror stories about guys traveling after surgery and having all sorts of issues.

Now in the past I have done a pat down because I didn't want to reveal my gender and I don't know how much of it is actually visible through those scanners. I also don't know if it is safe for my $6,000 hearing aids to go through either.

In the future I am scheduled to fly to San Antonio in a couple of weeks. I really don't know if I want a pat down or if I want a scanner. Obviously I am still healing. Any suggestions would be great.

I have had issues in the past I am about to disclose that information here.

1) San Antonio
2) Metal Detector
3) Opt Out
4) At first I was nervous but it wasn't a bad thing.
5) I would have to say with my ex she didn't like the entire pat down I went through thought it was way too invasive and it takes FOREVER!
6) I understand why TSA is there and I am glad, but really get with the program and use the technology that is better suited for the airport, so we don't have to take off our shoes anymore.
7) One time, I was really caught off guard by this too and didn't know how to respond. TSA agent asked to see my wallet. I felt like this was a bit of invasion of privacy. I see him going through and he sees the money in my wallet. He's like you big spender. He shouldn't have commented it was inappropriate. But if I had told him no he can't go through it, it could have red flagged me right?


Still trying to figure out my next trip.... I might ask my surgeon what he thinks as well.

[Andrea]

Ok so I have an interesting thing happening. As most people know I just recently had my lower surgery. One of the reasons I chose to stay local in Plano, TX was so I didn't have to deal with the TSA. I have heard horror stories about guys traveling after surgery and having all sorts of issues.

Now in the past I have done a pat down because I didn't want to reveal my gender and I don't know how much of it is actually visible through those scanners. I also don't know if it is safe for my $6,000 hearing aids to go through either.

In the future I am scheduled to fly to San Antonio in a couple of weeks. I really don't know if I want a pat down or if I want a scanner. Obviously I am still healing. Any suggestions would be great.

I have had issues in the past I am about to disclose that information here.

1) San Antonio
2) Metal Detector
3) Opt Out
4) At first I was nervous but it wasn't a bad thing.
5) I would have to say with my ex she didn't like the entire pat down I went through thought it was way too invasive and it takes FOREVER!
6) I understand why TSA is there and I am glad, but really get with the program and use the technology that is better suited for the airport, so we don't have to take off our shoes anymore.
7) One time, I was really caught off guard by this too and didn't know how to respond. TSA agent asked to see my wallet. I felt like this was a bit of invasion of privacy. I see him going through and he sees the money in my wallet. He's like you big spender. He shouldn't have commented it was inappropriate. But if I had told him no he can't go through it, it could have red flagged me right?


Still trying to figure out my next trip.... I might ask my surgeon what he thinks as well.

One of the problems with TSA is the lack of consistency. What occurs on your flight out will probably be different than your return flight. Each airport, TSA gate, and/or TSA clerk implement different rules, including made up rules.

Things to consider when choosing between the pat down and the scanner:

1) You can still be selected for a pat down even if you don’t trigger the scanner.

2) Men with large penises and large testicles have been flagged by the scanner for ‘abnormalities’ and subjected to the pat down.

3) Women with menstrual pads on have been flagged by the scanner for ‘abnormalities’ and subjected to the pat down.

4) Check with your hearing aid manufacturer about going through the scanner with them. TSA does NOT have the expertise to advise you and may tell you it is okay just to avoid giving you the pat down.

You state you understand why TSA is at our airports. Please expound on that. What do you believe is being accomplished by removing our shoes, taking no liquids into the secure area, and having TSA check our private parts?

You also mentioned your wallet was searched by a TSA clerk and your concern you may have been flagged if you said anything about it being inappropriate. In what way did you feel you might be flagged? Did you think you would receive a retaliatory search if you mentioned the TSA clerk had no need to open your wallet or did you think mentioning the wallet search would indicate you were a terrorist?

Not all TSA experiences are issues, other than ineffectual, time consuming, and fear mongering. I hope your experience is dull and ordinary.

One final note: you said one reason you stay in Plano, TX is to avoid TSA. See the posting directly above yours (and further back). TSA has expanded to searching trains, buses, and private cars.

[curlyredhead]

One of the problems with TSA is the lack of consistency. What occurs on your flight out will probably be different than your return flight. Each airport, TSA gate, and/or TSA clerk implement different rules, including made up rules.

Things to consider when choosing between the pat down and the scanner:

1) You can still be selected for a pat down even if you don’t trigger the scanner.

2) Men with large penises and large testicles have been flagged by the scanner for ‘abnormalities’ and subjected to the pat down.

3) Women with menstrual pads on have been flagged by the scanner for ‘abnormalities’ and subjected to the pat down.

4) Check with your hearing aid manufacturer about going through the scanner with them. TSA does NOT have the expertise to advise you and may tell you it is okay just to avoid giving you the pat down.

You state you understand why TSA is at our airports. Please expound on that. What do you believe is being accomplished by removing our shoes, taking no liquids into the secure area, and having TSA check our private parts?Well obviously they are here for our safety and preventing something like what happened on 9/11 again. Yes its annoying that we have to wait in line and have this inconvenience while traveling but I would rather be safe then dead.

You also mentioned your wallet was searched by a TSA clerk and your concern you may have been flagged if you said anything about it being inappropriate. In what way did you feel you might be flagged? Did you think you would receive a retaliatory search if you mentioned the TSA clerk had no need to open your wallet or did you think mentioning the wallet search would indicate you were a terrorist? If I had told him no he can't look I had a fear that it could stir up trouble that would be unnecessary. As for whether or not it would have indicated me as a terrorist I don't know since I really don't know what their protocols are.

Not all TSA experiences are issues, other than ineffectual, time consuming, and fear mongering. I hope your experience is dull and ordinary.

One final note: you said one reason you stay in Plano, TX is to avoid TSA. See the posting directly above yours (and further back). TSA has expanded to searching trains, buses, and private cars. I wasn't aware of this but I think in this day and age bombs and terrorist are a huge problem.If this is what we need to do to keep places safe then its what we have to do.

[Andrea]

I wasn't aware of this but I think in this day and age bombs and terrorist are a huge problem.If this is what we need to do to keep places safe then its what we have to do.

Thank you for the dialog. Can you tell me where you got the information that "bombs and terrorist are a huge problem"?

Previously I posted these stats:

Deaths from terrorism since 9/11 (10 years) - 3033
Deaths from breast cancer in 2011 - 39,520 (est)
Deaths from DUIs in 2010 - 32,885
Deaths from homicide in 2011 - 16,799

That is 89,204 deaths in one year compared to 3,033 over 10 years.

This doesn't include death by other cancers, working in unsafe conditions, starvation, lack of medical treatment for treatable illnesses, etc.

The 2012 TSA budget: $7.85 Billion

It seems to me breast cancer, DUIs and homicides are more dangerous and yet we spend $7.85 Billion a year for airport and other screening that has not stopped one terrorist.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts.

[Andrea]

TSA ends contract with Rapiscan, maker of full-body scanner

http://www.latimes.com/business/money/la-fi-mo-fullbody-scanner-contract-20130117,0,3525187.story (http://www.latimes.com/business/money/la-fi-mo-fullbody-scanner-contract-20130117,0,3525187.story)

"But TSA officials said the agency has canceled its contract with the company because it had failed to deliver software to protect the privacy of passengers."

"The Rapiscan scanners have also be criticized by privacy advocates and some health officials, who question whether the machines expose passengers to too much radiation."

[Linus]

http://thedoghousediaries.com/comics/uncategorized/2013-01-25-8f9db9e.png

[Rockinonahigh]

I'm going to the reunion this year so my mode of travel will be Amtrak from Marshall Tex. to LIttle Rock Ark, I do hope I don't have to deal wit the t.s.a. on this trip...I garentee the pic on my drivers licence and my physical one are definatly NOT female by any stretch of the imagnation...I cant help the dam name on the D.L. it is what it is.

[Toughy]

I just had a total hip replacement over Thanksgiving. I have a titanium socket and partially titanium femur (they cut off part of your femur to make the ball piece of the joint). I asked the surgeon about going through airport security. He said I would set off every metal detector there is and I could have problems with the wand depending on how it is set. The full body scanner will show the all the fancy new parts I have.

I have always maintained the full body scanners are dangerous to EVERYBODY including the TSA security folks. If that machine was in a hospital it would be in a lead lined room with ALL the precautions needed for simple x-rays. I'm glad TSA is going to dump them.

I have never liked flying....it's just not natural.....and since 9/11 when fear took over and common sense died I have flown maybe 3 times. Taking off your shoes, putting liquid in 3 oz bottles, no sharp objects, no lighters, but 3 books of matches oh wait you can have a lighter now, is all just stupid and does nothing to make anyone more secure.

I absolutely dread the thought of airport security now because I will set off all their bells and whistles. The thought of partially dropping my pants and showing off my big ass scar is not a pleasant one. Funny though....I was at the Federal Building in Oakland and I set off the metal detector. They stopped me of course, asked me where I was going (the VA Regional office) and I told them I had had a hip replacement and they did not even wand me......I got a thank you for your service and was on my way.

[Andrea]

I just had a total hip replacement over Thanksgiving. I have a titanium socket and partially titanium femur (they cut off part of your femur to make the ball piece of the joint). I asked the surgeon about going through airport security. He said I would set off every metal detector there is and I could have problems with the wand depending on how it is set. The full body scanner will show the all the fancy new parts I have.

I have always maintained the full body scanners are dangerous to EVERYBODY including the TSA security folks. If that machine was in a hospital it would be in a lead lined room with ALL the precautions needed for simple x-rays. I'm glad TSA is going to dump them.

I have never liked flying....it's just not natural.....and since 9/11 when fear took over and common sense died I have flown maybe 3 times. Taking off your shoes, putting liquid in 3 oz bottles, no sharp objects, no lighters, but 3 books of matches oh wait you can have a lighter now, is all just stupid and does nothing to make anyone more secure.

I absolutely dread the thought of airport security now because I will set off all their bells and whistles. The thought of partially dropping my pants and showing off my big ass scar is not a pleasant one. Funny though....I was at the Federal Building in Oakland and I set off the metal detector. They stopped me of course, asked me where I was going (the VA Regional office) and I told them I had had a hip replacement and they did not even wand me......I got a thank you for your service and was on my way.

I am sorry you will always be subjected to a pat down now, even though you previously put your life on the line to fight against this type of egregious act on every one.

[SuddenlyWestFemme]

I think there should be a 'take your chance airline'--where you go through the old fashioned security (pre 9-11), sign a waver, and are on your way to the plane that other like minded folks are flying.

Since that won't happen, and I refuse to go through the scanner, I get the pat down almost every time I fly. Would be every time, but when flying with the kids, I get to go through the old fashioned metal detector security.

I have never been touched in an obnoxious way... and everyone treats me well. However, I have Femme privileged so that probably has something to do with it.

And not to turn a serious subject into a joke... but honestly, for most of the past two years--the only touch I was getting was while going through airport security. And I kinda sorta... in an embarrassed to say way... looked forward to that part of flying. I secretly hoped for the rough strong hands of a big butch TSA officer (blush).

[Andrea]

In March, 2013, the Transportation Security Administration announced it would relax the bans of the carriage of small knives aboard commercial planes. For several reasons this is a smart and sensible move that will help to rationalize and streamline airport security. The backlash against the decision is illogical and, from an air safety perspective, counterproductive. The purpose of this petition is to encourage TSA not to back down under pressure from misguided and emotionally charged arguments. A more thorough explanation of the cause can be read here: http://www.askthepilot.com/tsa-to-relax-ban/ (http://www.askthepilot.com/tsa-to-relax-ban/)

https://www.change.org/petitions/tsa-don-t-give-in-to-fear-mongering (https://www.change.org/petitions/tsa-don-t-give-in-to-fear-mongering)

[Little Fish]

It should be noted that neither the flight attendants union nor the air marshall's were consulted regarding the loosening of restrictions on these small knives and sports equipment. I understand there is a petition on the White House web site for people who want the TSA to re-consider their decision.
Personally, I haven't decided what I think yet--

[Andrea]

Former Newark Airport TSA screener says the job does little to keep fliers safe

http://m.nypost.com/p/news/local/confessions_of_tsa_agent_we_re_bunch_OhxHeGd0RR9UV GzfypjnLO (http://m.nypost.com/p/news/local/confessions_of_tsa_agent_we_re_bunch_OhxHeGd0RR9UV GzfypjnLO)

"A LOT of what we do is make-believe."

[Andrea]

TSA Allowed at Least 11 Airport Employees With Criminal Backgrounds To Receive Security Badges

http://m.cnsnews.com/news/article/tsa-allowed-least-11-airport-employees-criminal-backgrounds-receive-security-badges (http://m.cnsnews.com/news/article/tsa-allowed-least-11-airport-employees-criminal-backgrounds-receive-security-badges)

"The Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) mismanagement of a program responsible for issuing security badges to aviation employees resulted in at least 11 individuals with criminal backgrounds obtaining badges that allowed access to secure areas of U.S. airports."

[Andrea]

Thanks for the Headlines

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324128504578346183905546450.html?m od=googlenews_wsj (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324128504578346183905546450.html?m od=googlenews_wsj)

"The Transportation Security Administration tacitly admitted last week that a big part of its job is a complete waste of time."

[Andrea]

TSA agents 'humiliated' wounded Marine with aggressive inspection: report

http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/inside-politics/2013/mar/19/tsa-agents-humiliated-wounded-marine-aggressive-in/ (http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/inside-politics/2013/mar/19/tsa-agents-humiliated-wounded-marine-aggressive-in/)

"Transportation Security Administration inspectors forced a wounded Marine who lost both of his legs in an IED blast and who was in a wheelchair to remove his prosthetic legs at one point, and at another point to stand painfully on his legs while his wheelchair was examined, according to a complaint a congressman has registered with the TSA."

[Andrea]

TSA tested, scrapped program that tracked Bluetooth devices

http://www.wsoctv.com/news/news/local/tsa-tested-scrapped-program-tracked-bluetooth-devi/nWyfh/?nmredir=true (http://www.wsoctv.com/news/news/local/tsa-tested-scrapped-program-tracked-bluetooth-devi/nWyfh/?nmredir=true)

"This is an expensive and needlessly complicated way of estimating wait times, compared with say a ticket agent writing the time at the front of the line," said Julian Sanchez, author of "Wiretapping the Internet."

[Andrea]

Orlando TSA officer arrested, accused of stealing tourist's computer

http://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/orlando-tsa-officer-arrested-accused-stealing-tour/nW2ZG/ (http://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/orlando-tsa-officer-arrested-accused-stealing-tour/nW2ZG/)

[Andrea]

TSA agent accidentally pepper sprays fellow agents

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/tsa-screener-accidentally-pepper-sprays-fellow-agents-222955329.html (http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/tsa-screener-accidentally-pepper-sprays-fellow-agents-222955329.html)

"The agent, Chris Yves Dabel, discovered the device at the Terminal 2 security checkpoint and tried to determine if it was real, a source told The Post. He told Port Authority cops that he “found the canister on the floor and thought it was a laser pointer". They were playing around with it,” said one Kennedy Airport official."

Pepper spray looks like a laser pointer? No wonder weapons get through the checkpoints.

[Andrea]

This blog posting describes issues Sai has had with TSA due to his neurological disorder.

http://saizai.com/tsa (http://saizai.com/tsa)

Does his treatment really make you feel safer?

Please consider how many people the ineffectual TSA 'rules' adversely affect.

[Angeltoes]

Last week when I was flying from Boise to Denver the TSA agent confiscated about $50 worth of hair products from me. It was kind of my fault because I put them in my carry on but still an unreasonable policy imo. The agent started pissing me off when she told me I could check them which would mean spending $50. I told her to smell it. She said 'Miss I'm not going to do that' and I said, 'because you know that's shampoo'...she said nothing.

At least they should post signs at the check in counter to remind people to pack their toiletries in their checked luggage. I had to just throw that stuff out.

[Andrea]

TSA employee at Columbia Regional Airport arrested after items went missing

http://www.columbiamissourian.com/a/161362/tsa-employee-at-columbia-regional-airport-arrested-after-items-went-missing/ (http://www.columbiamissourian.com/a/161362/tsa-employee-at-columbia-regional-airport-arrested-after-items-went-missing/)

A Transportation Security Administration employee at Columbia Regional Airport was arrested Thursday after passengers complained about missing items from their luggage.

http://www.komu.com/news/tsa-employee-at-columbia-regional-arrested/ (http://www.komu.com/news/tsa-employee-at-columbia-regional-arrested/)

[Andrea]

TSA supervisor caught stealing pills from luggage in Syracuse

http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2013/04/tsa_supervisor_caught_stealing.html (http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2013/04/tsa_supervisor_caught_stealing.html)

TSA supervisor was himself caught on videotape last month stealing 12 Tylenol pills from a passenger's luggage in Syracuse, according to a police report.

[Andrea]

Airline, Airport Employees Caught Abusing Security Badges

http://www.nbcdfw.com/investigations/Airline-Airport-Employees-Caught-Abusing-Security-Badges-205288061.html (http://www.nbcdfw.com/investigations/Airline-Airport-Employees-Caught-Abusing-Security-Badges-205288061.html)

".....workers at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport abusing their security badges, even using them to help family and friends skip the checkpoints to board flights."

All airport employees must pass TSA security clearance. Feel safer?

[Andrea]

TSA workers at Daytona airport get more training after complaint

http://www.news-journalonline.com/article/20130517/NEWS/305179958 (http://www.news-journalonline.com/article/20130517/NEWS/305179958)

"Robi Mandell, who has multiple sclerosis and lupus, suddenly found herself arguing with a trio of Transportation Security Administration workers. For 20 minutes, she said they repeatedly told her she couldn't get out of her wheelchair and walk through the metal detector – even though she told them several times she was capable of doing that with a cane."

[Andrea]

Showdown at the Airport Body Scanner

http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/25/showdown-at-the-airport-body-scanner/ (http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/25/showdown-at-the-airport-body-scanner/)

An OpEd piece that could have been written by me (if I could write).

[Andrea]

Women pulled off flight at JFK after talking about 'taking down America'


http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/women_pulled_america_flight_down_AZJ55fBOfuIxi7uGJ xMHSL#.UafLHvbFhas.email (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/women_pulled_america_flight_down_AZJ55fBOfuIxi7uGJ xMHSL#.UafLHvbFhas.email)

"Two Middle Eastern women were pulled off an arriving flight at JFK Airport late this afternoon when a passenger claimed she heard one make a comment about “taking down America,” law-enforcement sources told The Post.

The drama unfolded around 5:45 p.m. aboard Delta flight #1192 from Tampa when the female passenger told an airline employee that her seatmate made the ominous comment, the sources said.

The two women were taken into custody by the Joint Terrorism Task Force and Port Authority Emergency Service cops.

They were released without being charged."

[Andrea]

Report Says T.S.A. Screening Is Not Objective

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/05/us/report-says-tsa-screening-program-not-objective.html?hpw&_r=1& (http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/05/us/report-says-tsa-screening-program-not-objective.html?hpw&_r=1&)

"The Transportation Security Administration has little evidence that an airport passenger screening program, which some employees believe is a magnet for racial profiling and has cost taxpayers nearly one billion dollars, screens passengers objectively, according to a report by the inspector general for the Homeland Security Department."

[Andrea]

Former TSA worker indicted, arrested in Gresham on federal bank robbery charges

http://www.oregonlive.com/gresham/index.ssf/2013/06/former_tsa_worker_indicted_arr.html (http://www.oregonlive.com/gresham/index.ssf/2013/06/former_tsa_worker_indicted_arr.html)

At one point, this man had the authority to fondle you and decide if you could fly. Still feeling safer with the TSA?

[Andrea]

TSA agent arrested over cocaine

http://www.wivb.com/dpp/news/crime/tsa-agent-arrested-over-cocaine (http://www.wivb.com/dpp/news/crime/tsa-agent-arrested-over-cocaine)

"A TSA agent at the Buffalo Niagara Airport is facing felony drug charges."

[Andrea]

Force of Twitter was with him! Famed Chewbacca actor gets light saber cane back from TSA after tweeting snap at airport security

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/security_light_twitter_saber_after_6N9tFUNvRXHL5iQ mhb26tM (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/security_light_twitter_saber_after_6N9tFUNvRXHL5iQ mhb26tM)

I am glad TSA came to their senses and allowed this person to keep a medically necessary item.

[DMW]

First time I wasn't felt up by security to check my personal package and I got a "gorgeous" remark. Although, I think she was referring to the smooth pace of the line.
I don't like those naked machines. however, i understand why they are necessary.
We exist...so get used to it.

Tsa and trans travelers
http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/transgender-travelers

I have to grin a bit at the " packing a carry-on"

[Andrea]

Wake up! Photos, video show JFK Airport security guards dozing at key posts

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/dream_job_for_airport_workers_5ZMBzolLgQIXKp39jaqu OI (http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/dream_job_for_airport_workers_5ZMBzolLgQIXKp39jaqu OI)

"Terror-targeted JFK Airport has become a giant slumber party for some of its security guards — who regularly doze on duty at key posts, according to a former boss and damning photos obtained by The Post."

[Andrea]

Woman with prosthesis says TSA agent made her feel uncomfortable

http://www.khou.com/news/texas-news/Woman-with-prosthesis-claims-TSA-agent-made-her-feel-uncomfortable-210951141.html (http://www.khou.com/news/texas-news/Woman-with-prosthesis-claims-TSA-agent-made-her-feel-uncomfortable-210951141.html)

"Steiner said the agent never acknowledged her or told her what she was doing. Instead, according to Steiner, the agent proceeded to pull the prosthesis out of her bra, about an inch away from her body."

[Andrea]

Former TSA worker faces child porn charges

http://www.eagletribune.com/latestnews/x1472212120/Former-TSA-worker-faces-child-porn-charges (http://www.eagletribune.com/latestnews/x1472212120/Former-TSA-worker-faces-child-porn-charges)

"Miguel Quinones, 38, of 67 Whittemore Ave., Manchester, faces 10 felony counts after he turned himself over to police on an arrest warrant yesterday, according to Londonderry police Lt. Timothy Jones."

[Andrea]

Report Says T.S.A. Screening Is Not Objective

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/05/us/report-says-tsa-screening-program-not-objective.html?_r=1& (http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/05/us/report-says-tsa-screening-program-not-objective.html?_r=1&)

"The Transportation Security Administration has little evidence that an airport passenger screening program, which some employees believe is a magnet for racial profiling and has cost taxpayers nearly one billion dollars, screens passengers objectively, according to a report by the inspector general for the Homeland Security Department."

[Andrea]

The TSA’s Solution For My Reluctance To Open Baby Food Jars? A Pat-Down

http://consumerist.com/2013/06/19/the-tsas-solution-for-my-reluctance-to-open-baby-food-jars-a-pat-down/ (http://consumerist.com/2013/06/19/the-tsas-solution-for-my-reluctance-to-open-baby-food-jars-a-pat-down/)

"What he wasn’t expecting was a request from the agent to actually open the jars. While the TSA’s published policies do say that it has the authority to request that baby food containers be opened, actually unsealing the food jars is problematic as, once the lids are opened, the contents need to be refrigerated within an hour or be tossed out. Given that the family still had hours of traveling in front of them, opening the jars would effectively be the same as being told to throw them in the trash."

[*Anya*]

The TSA’s Solution For My Reluctance To Open Baby Food Jars? A Pat-Down

http://consumerist.com/2013/06/19/the-tsas-solution-for-my-reluctance-to-open-baby-food-jars-a-pat-down/ (http://consumerist.com/2013/06/19/the-tsas-solution-for-my-reluctance-to-open-baby-food-jars-a-pat-down/)

"What he wasn’t expecting was a request from the agent to actually open the jars. While the TSA’s published policies do say that it has the authority to request that baby food containers be opened, actually unsealing the food jars is problematic as, once the lids are opened, the contents need to be refrigerated within an hour or be tossed out. Given that the family still had hours of traveling in front of them, opening the jars would effectively be the same as being told to throw them in the trash."

Yes, they must not know about vacuum sealing....I guess terrorists could?

Reminds me of a post I put in here a while back. Had a prescribed liquid med with pharmacy label and it was factory sealed. Had to open it so they could test it. Then had to pray it wasn't contaminated from the test solution.

Also had brought a letter on letterhead from my MD regarding the medication.

I guess all of that could be faked?

I recently traveled to NM on business. Though I hate to check luggage, I did anyway, just to avoid all the security hassle and just prayed they would put the top back on tightly.

They did.

No pat down either this time.

I don't know what the answer is.

We are kind of damned if we do or damned if we don't, aren't we? (As a nation, with airport security).

[Andrea]

Yes, they must not know about vacuum sealing....I guess terrorists could?

Reminds me of a post I put in here a while back. Had a prescribed liquid med with pharmacy label and it was factory sealed. Had to open it so they could test it. Then had to pray it wasn't contaminated from the test solution.

Also had brought a letter on letterhead from my MD regarding the medication.

I guess all of that could be faked?

I recently traveled to NM on business. Though I hate to check luggage, I did anyway, just to avoid all the security hassle and just prayed they would put the top back on tightly.

They did.

No pat down either this time.

I don't know what the answer is.

We are kind of damned if we do or damned if we don't, aren't we? (As a nation, with airport security).

(Bolding mine) I respectfully disagree. I believe the reinforcing of the cockpit doors and the change in how a terrorist on an airplane is dealt with (no longer passive), are sufficient to deal with the once in a while terrorist on a plane actions.

There is NO evidence that the security measures of the TSA has in any way stopped terrorists. In fact, I am surprised a terrorist hasn't targeted the queue for the TSA as the lines often contain more people than a single plane.

I don't know what the answer is either but I do know it isn't the TSA and the security theater we are currently subjected to.

Thank you for your comments, Anya.

[Andrea]

Tomorrow, June 24, 2013, is the last day to submit your comments about Passenger Screening Using Advanced Imaging Technology

http://www.regulations.gov/#!submitComment;D=TSA-2013-0004-0001 (http://www.regulations.gov/#!submitComment;D=TSA-2013-0004-0001)

[Andrea]

TSA's new Instagram shows all the dangerous items that presented no danger

http://boingboing.net/2013/07/03/tsas-new-instagram-shows-all.html (http://boingboing.net/2013/07/03/tsas-new-instagram-shows-all.html)

"But what they don't show is all the grand-jury indictments for conspiracy to commit air terrorism that they secured after catching people with these items -- even the people who were packing guns.

That's because no one -- not the TSA, not the DAs, not the DHS -- believe that anyone who tries to board a plane with a dangerous item is actually planning on doing anything bad with them. After all, as New York State chief judge Sol Wachtler said (quoting Tom Wolfe), "a grand jury would 'indict a ham sandwich,' if that's what you wanted." So if there was any question about someone thinking of hurting a plane, you'd expect to see indictments."

And my favorite part of the article:

"But," he said, "maybe someone who did want to crash the plane might take the bad thing away from them and attack it."

"That doesn't sound like a very reliable plan," I said. "If you were a terrorist and that was your plan, you'd have to spend a lot of time in the air waiting for someone to open his laptop bag and show you that he forgot to take his handgun out of it before he boarded."

"Yeah," he said. He thought for a moment. "This is really above my pay-grade."

[Andrea]

TSA searches valet parked car

http://www.whec.com/news/stories/S3101080.shtml?cat=566 (http://www.whec.com/news/stories/S3101080.shtml?cat=566)

"Rochester, N.Y. -- She says she had no warning that someone was going to search her car after she left to catch her flight. So the woman contacted News10NBC.

We found out it happened to her because she valet parked her car. Those are the only cars that get inspected.

So if security feels it is necessary to search some cars in the name of safety, why not search all of them?

Laurie Iacuzza walked to her waiting car at the Greater Rochester International Airport after returning from a trip and that's when she found it -- a notice saying her car was inspected after she left for her flight. She said, “I was furious. They never mentioned it to me when I booked the valet or when I picked up the car or when I dropped it off.”

Iacuzza's car was inspected by valet attendants on orders from the TSA. But why only valet parked cars? That's what News10NBC wanted to ask the TSA director about. We reached him by phone.

Berkeley Brean asked, “Are the cars in the short term lots and long term lots getting searched as well?”

John McCaffery, TSA, said, “No, those vehicles that are in the garage, short term long term parking, even if they carry pretty large amounts of explosives, they would not cause damage to the front of the airport. But for those who use the valet, the car could be there for a half hour or an hour so there is a vulnerability.”

News10NBC went to the valet parking and one of the attendants showed us the notice they put in the cars.

We asked, “You're required, they tell you, you have to search the car?” Valet Parking Attendant Frank Dettorre said, “I have to do it.”

We also noticed a large sign that alerts customers that their vehicle will be inspected. The sign is on the kiosk window. Iacuzza says it was not there when she dropped off her car. “I think the public should be aware of the fact that if their car is going to be searched, they should be informed of it.”

Iacuzza said she doesn't mind the security measure. She just wants to be told if her car is getting searched.

News10NBC asked the owner of the company that runs the valet parking when they put up the sign but he wouldn't answer.

TSA says this is part of its overall security plan and that it's a proactive move. The attendants said they've only been doing it for about a month."

[Andrea]

Ex-Honolulu TSA screener denies stealing cash

http://www.kansascity.com/2013/07/19/4355041/ex-honolulu-tsa-screener-accused.html (http://www.kansascity.com/2013/07/19/4355041/ex-honolulu-tsa-screener-accused.html)

"She acknowledged pleading no contest to theft in 1995 in a separate case..."