My son is 18 years old and flew SW from BDL to BWI last week. He is an orthodox jew, was dressed in black pants and white shirt, small black yarmulka. Security took apart his suitcases completely. I have no problem with this.

When he got to the gate, they took him aside and then began to go over his backpack. The final call for the flight was announced and they finally let him board. After he got to his seat, a security guard boarded the p[lane and told him he could only fly if they took away his backpack. It would be returned to him after he landed.

Well, as a kid he was intimidated and did it. I have never heard of this. Anyone else ever experienced this?

I mentioned the way he was dressed simply to clarify that he was not out of the "norm". Now fair is fair, it was a one way ticket into the greater Washington area, but I'm surprised about the backpack.

Can anyone enlighten me before I approach SW?