Originally Posted by
RichardKenner
You miss the point. This is an administrative search. That means the passenger must be able to decline the search. If I decline a search on the way to an aircraft, the consequences are that I'm not allowed to fly. This is legal because there is supposedly no right to fly. But what are the consequences if I decline such a search on arrival? I'm not permitted to go home? Unlike flying, I do have a right to go home: I cannot be forced to be searched in order to be able to go one (once I've cleared Customs). Why would people agree to a completely optional search?
I'm sure you could refuse the search. But you would have to wait around for LEOs to come and escort you out of the airport. You also might have your record documented so that on future trips you would get SSSS treatment every time. Not worth it, IMHO!