I don't know if they use CAPPS overseas or not. That's a good question. ICTS, the security firm, already uses a computerized analysis system so I don't know if they use CAPPS on top of that.

In my experience, the interviews have varied depending on the particular staff on duty and the station. I thought it would be more intensive after September 11 but no... actually more relaxed. In many cases I think they're just required to ask 7-10 questions in no particular order.

My father was just in Schipol and felt overwhelmed by the security on Continental. He does have a dark beard though.

I don't feel quite so intimidated if I remember that the person interviewing me is often 19 or 20 years old, has no special powers, makes less money than I do, etc. If they let Dick Reid on board with a fake passport and unusual footwear, they're probably not the best and the brightest.

Incidentally, El Al is working to eliminate the interviews. Since they already have a trusted traveller program, many of their passengers don't deal with them anymore. (See this month's Air Transport World.)