What gives with TSA lock
Aug 18, 2014, 9:02 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Aug 2014
Posts: 1
What gives with TSA lock
I gotten there flimsy locks...
I use a pelican case (very durable and nice) locked by 4 TSA approved locks and 6 latches to keep the lid shut. They keep cutting the locks and leaving only front two latches down.
I use a pelican case (very durable and nice) locked by 4 TSA approved locks and 6 latches to keep the lid shut. They keep cutting the locks and leaving only front two latches down.
Aug 19, 2014, 5:02 am
#2
Join Date: May 2011
Location: San Antonio, TX
Programs: AA EXP, DL Silver, Global Entry
Posts: 1,863
Some people report the locks disappear all the time and others, myself included, have used them without issue. I fly frequently and have locks that are originals from when they went with TSA locks and maybe have lost two for whatever reason over time. I have no misgivings about the security they offer or don't offer, quite frankly I use them most to keep zippers from opening during travel. Somebody wants to get into luggage isn't going to give a lock a second thought. Could use zip ties just as well but I have quite a collection of TSA locks so that's what I use.
Aug 19, 2014, 10:46 am
#3
Suspended
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: DCA
Programs: UA US CO AA DL FL
Posts: 50,262
+1 - Locking a checked bag for security reasons is folly.
At the speed with which TSA is screening checked luggage, don't expect an Officer to rummage for a key. Easier to cut the lock.
At the speed with which TSA is screening checked luggage, don't expect an Officer to rummage for a key. Easier to cut the lock.
Aug 19, 2014, 11:35 am
#4
Join Date: May 2011
Location: San Antonio, TX
Programs: AA EXP, DL Silver, Global Entry
Posts: 1,863
Have to say while I've lost maybe one or two locks over the years I've never had a lock gone when I also had a TSA note in a bag. Now granted that doesn't mean that every time TSA opens a bag that they put their inspection note in the bag. Also doesn't mean that some baggage handler didn't cut a lock off but I've also not had anything stolen either.....I put pretty much nothing but clothing in my checked bags. Lots of other options like I failed to lock it or it got destroyed since the newer ones are basically plastic.
Aug 19, 2014, 11:35 am
#5
Moderator, Omni, Omni/PR, Omni/Games, FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Between DCA and IAD
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Posts: 67,133
Might as well say, "Oops, the TSA is in a hurry, so they just had to take a knife and slit your suitcase open rather than bother with unzipping it."
Aug 19, 2014, 8:21 pm
#7
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: on the path to perdition
Programs: Delta, United
Posts: 4,785
Aug 19, 2014, 8:41 pm
#8
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: New York, NY
Programs: AA Gold. UA Silver, Marriott Gold, Hilton Diamond, Hyatt (Lifetime Diamond downgraded to Explorist)
Posts: 6,776
If you're allowed to answer is each TSO doing checked baggage checks given these keys or is there maybe a limited amount based upon the size of the facility? It is more out of personal curiosity but could explain why some people experience more cut locks going through certain areas.
Aug 21, 2014, 11:24 am
#9
Join Date: Oct 2008
Location: Port Moody, BC
Posts: 484
Then perhaps the TSA needs to review and improve the process by which it works with companies to develop approved locks?
Aug 21, 2014, 11:34 am
#10
Join Date: May 2011
Location: San Antonio, TX
Programs: AA EXP, DL Silver, Global Entry
Posts: 1,863
Then perhaps the TSA needs to review and improve the process by which it works with companies to develop approved locks?
Aug 22, 2014, 10:22 am
#11
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: San Francisco, CA
Posts: 234
I pretty much assume I'm going to lose locks on my Pelican cases. I have plastered skateboarding stickers all over them and this seems to reduce TSA opening, but I swear baggage handlers take them as a challenge. If I pack anything X-ray interesting inside, they are sure to be opened however.