Originally Posted by
Boggie Dog
That was my understanding, but wondered if the poster making the comment had been so advised by a medical practitioner.
I question if a person has "to arrange ahead of time" for a Passenger Support Specialist?
One page at TSA.gov says this"
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support[B]
To my understanding of English that suggests immediacy and not a requirement to arrange for this service ahead of time.
On the same page this information is also stated:
It seems clear that the 72 hour call ahead is only to ask questions and gather information, not to arrange a PSS to meet a traveler.
A passenger does not
have to call ahead. They can request the PSS upon arrival - some folks do this, some call ahead.
If the passenger calls ahead, it can make the process more efficient for the passenger, as it affords the PSS team the chance to plan ahead as well. If I have 72 hour notification, and can communicate directly with the passenger, I know what steps I can take ahead of time, to minimize challenges. It also allows for me to plan for any specialized screening that the individual may require based upon their individual needs.
Example, a passenger that can not get out of their wheelchair, requires a pat down - if I have foreknowledge of this, I can communicate with the STSO ahead of time, and work with the checkpoint staff to get the individual to an area that provides more space. It simply makes the process easier upon the passenger, and by extension the TSO. The same thing will happen if this passenger approaches the checkpoint and requests the PSS, but it will take longer to do.
I work with tons of special needs passengers, consistently. The ones that call ahead and allow us to plan, almost always get through quicker, because I am prepared with the correct tools and organization to effectively screen that person, all I need is them to show up and we are ready to go.
Disclaimer**
While this is the way I understand the program to work, I can only speak to my own experiences at GSO, RDU and CLT in terms of PSS. Other airports may have different processes based upon working space/layout, etc.
Here at GSO, we have the luxury of good working space, and with prior communication, I can meet the individual at the counter/common area and walk them all the way through.