FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Is Global Entry worthwhile?

Dec 5, 2012 | 11:29 pm

#2879

DCBob

Join Date: Sep 2001

Location: Washington, DC

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Posts: 5,015

Quote:

Originally Posted by jasonvr

I would agree it defeats the purpose. Never seen an agent by the kiosks in the couple of times I've used it so far (IAH and SFO) and there was no one to present it to that I recall. Just walked from the kiosks to baggage claim and then on to Customs

First of all, it does not defeat the purpose. They always have the right to pull ANYONE aside and ask additional questions, especially if the passenger is coming from a country that is a major source of drug trafficking or terrorism. But the questions take all of 30 seconds or less. Waiting in a long line at CBP can take 30 minutes or longer.

Second, usually I walk right from the kiosk to baggage claim (always at IAD), but I have had the picture on my kiosk printout checked visually against my person at two airports prior to entering baggage claim (at SFO and DTW). In neither case, was I asked any questions - I was just greeted with a smile and "welcome home."

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