[JustJo]

Originally Posted by Kobi

With all due respect Jo, I am pretty sure the adult diaper didnt set off the metal detector.

Hi Kobi,
I don't think anyone has suggested that the adult diaper set off the metal detector. I believe, from the article, the issue was that since she was not ambulatory enough to clear the metal detector without the wheelchair, she was subjected to a more extensive search...as is TSA policy. I'm not saying that policy is good or bad.

I am pretty sure travelers have to remove their shoes for inspection because of the guy who smuggled a bomb on board in his shoes. And the guy who tried to smuggle a bomb in his underwear is what prompted the invasive patdowns that are now done and the underwear checks. Restrictions on shampoos and mouthwashes and liquids are a result of something that was found that did not involve shampoo, mouthwashes, or water bottles.

I'm pretty sure that you're right...that shoe removal came about because of the "shoe bomber" episode. I'm sure that I've been subject to pat downs before the underwear incident because I tend to fly in full skirts (for the comfort factor). I think the article that Yellow Band posted points to the reason for that...and may also be a factor with other loose or baggy clothing.

I also cannot remember one single instance where a terrorist plot within the USA involved using children, or the elderly or anyone in wheelchair.

Agreed. However, I couldn't say the same worldwide...and that it wouldn't or couldn't happen here as well.

The regs are, in my opinion and as far as I know I still have a right to one, overreactions to the actual threat. It is the government instilling fear in its citizens.

Again, I agree. I think that all of the constant "threat level" announcements in the airport are pointless...and that we fan fear and hysteria for all kinds of reasons.

Some of us do not believe the government accounts of what happened on 9/11 or how the twin towers really fell, or the actual realistic terrorist threat regarding air travel.

And theories about 9/11? That could be a whole other thread (if it isn't already).

You, of course, are welcome to have different opinion.

I read an interesting blog on how the TSA gets away with these measures by calling them "administrative searches." Here's a link for anyone that's interested....and I think the writer has a valid point. If we disagree with these searches, then we need to challenge them in court and with our legislators. That's the only way things will be changed.