Sep 26, 2001 06:19 PM
13526 Views
'Reviewer' asks about differences in travel restrictions in the US since the terrorist attack. Although I haven't personally flown, I do have reservations for a flight next month and I know people who have. Also, because I live outside of Boston-the departure site of two of the planes, airport issues have been prominent in our news. I'd like to consider two separate topics. What has already changed and what we have learned about the security systems etc. in the airports that need to change.
What has changed.
There is a visible police presence in the airports.
Passengers are now asked to arrive two hours ahead of a flight to allow for increased time checking luggage and ID.
There is no curbside check in. Luggage can only be checked by the ticketed passenger showing ID and confirmation of flight at the ticket counter.
According to my brother who flew himself the other day, the airport personnel are very alert during the security checks and many bags were opened and checked. Also, the airports are picking up bags left by unattended by passengers.(this has been policy for a long time but not often enforced).
I received a detailed email from Delta regarding my upcoming reservation describing new security.
A couple of airlines already in financial trouble have shut down operations and others have cancelled flights. Fewer people are booking flights and some are cancelling planned vacations.
What we know needs to change.
There was a detailed story on 60 Minutes about flight security last week. In the US, the security system and personnel are purchased by contract. The airlines have apparently been responsible for this and the contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder. Personnel doing this important job are paid minimum wage. When asked what other jobs the people he interviews are looking at, at security company official said'fast food'. A high percentage of the employees in some airports are not US citizens. In one airport over half the security personnel had lived in the US one year or less.
(Here in Boston, there has been some question that security personnel may have aided the terrorists in getting through the system.)
There, obviously need to be major changes in this system. Other things are being discussed regarding pilot safety and protocols.
Things are definitely changing for the American flying public.
