Yesterday saw us returning from a couple of weeks family holiday in Florida and we returned through TPA.
We had arrived fairly early and as such the check in desks were not open, although there was a lady getting things ready for the two BA flights which depart TPA (LGW and DFW)
I explained that on a recent transit through the US one of my cases had been opened by a TSA and the lock not reset, leaving it insecure as it would open with any combination.
She was very pleasant and pointed me in the direction of a staff security area where there should be a TSA present.
I was a bit apprehensive as we've all heard stories of security agents being above their station.
I approached and explained the situation to the TSA who couldn't have been more helpful. He went off to get a set of keys and duly reset my lock wishing me a safe onward journey.
We were travelling with our six month old daughter and really didn't know what to expect at the security screening.
We had packed sterilised bottles with water and separate formula in powder form and also a couple of pre-mixed Aptimil cartons.
The guys at security were fantastic. They gave us the option of opening the cartons and a bottle or two to taste test them, although they could see that would be an inconvenience or for one of us to have a pat down and to do a manual search of our bags. We opted for the second option.
The two gentlemen couldn't have been more helpful and professional. We thanked them as we left and one of them said, "we can see this is not your first time to the US and hopefully wont be your last, have a great day"
Then, when we entered the lounge, who should greet us but the lady who was preparing the check in area. "Hi again!" she yelled. I've reserved you an area just over here for you all. It's quiet and near to the ladies restroom which has baby changing facilities.
It's no wonder that TPA is voted one of the top 3 airports in the US
http://www.tampaairport.com/about/me...st-airport.pdf
It's just a shame that what started off to be an excellent homeward journey ended up being the worst CW flight I have ever experience.
We were blessed with a couple of crew that genuinely didn't seem to know the front of the plane from the back.
Mucked up food orders, drink orders, duty free orders. It was a complete an utter shambles, oh and don't get me started on the baggage handlers at Gatwick.