Originally Posted by
BearX220
And I think it's profoundly childish to expect airport theater -- particularly that which makes adversaries of fellow fliers -- to magically transform TSA or (bigger issue) the onerous security state. Arresting checkpoint flow so others miss their flights is not a "basic human right." You want change, get to work ejecting your congressman from office. Not as dramatic or exciting, but more effective.
I am a pax who routinely 'arrests' checkpoint flow, although I think it's a huge exaggeration to say I have caused anyone (other than myself) to miss a flight.
I've heard the snarky threats 'those folks behind [me]' have made in my hearing, remarks made by people who don't have a clue what they're talking about.
To the casual eye, I look fine. I am medically unable to assume and hold the position necessary for a good scan. Some people 'fake' limitations to avoid the NoS. Some folks (like me and John McCain, for example) have genuine limitations.
At many checkpoints (still), when you are directed to the NoS and you explain that you are unable to assume and hold the position, the TSO tells you that it means you are an 'opt out'. You stand aside and wait for your groper, bag search and swab.
1) Do you think the folks who mutter in line and on forums know that I have a physical limitation? Or...are they making assumptions that anyone who doesn't go in the NoS is some kind of political trouble-maker who travels solely to cause headaches for pax and TSOs?
2) I'm not in charge of how checkpoints are run, but someone please explain to me: when I am directed to the NoS, I explain my medical limitations. I'm told to stand aside and wait for my groper.
When that happens, how exactly does that slow you down?
3) Final question. Do the folks who get hostile and rant about missing flights because of opt-outs (medical or personal choice) also get hostile and rant about elderly people with arthritis who can't hold up the line taking their shoes off and putting them back on in front of the belt? Do they rant about men who stand in line for 20 minutes and then suddenly have to empty pockets (always takes at least three tries) and remove belts and jackets once they are at the belt? Do they complain about parents with kids and strollers?
In short: if you're cool with the NoS and
physically and medically able to use it, great (even though it is slower than the WTMD). Now do me the courtesy of being equally respectful of my situation instead of making insulting assumptions.