I recently returned from an overseas trip, where I noted that the baggage scanning personnel appeared to take just as long to stare at the carry-on scanner as the TSA personnel do in the US, but there were no noticeable lines. As I had plenty of time before my flight, I watched for a while to see how this could be done. The very simple answer has resulted in a modest proposal to improve flight service in this country and to reduce or eliminate the lines.

My proposal is simple. Within nine months, require all airlines to present all baggage for claim within ten(10) minutes of the aircraft reaching the gate. Within 12 months, restrict the carry on of any bag over 7 kg (anything bigger than a briefcase or purse).

The airlines would have to hire more baggage handlers, but could make up for this revenue through their ability to turn aircraft much more quickly. Many overseas flights turn in 30 minutes. Boarding, and particularly disembarcation, was MUCH faster without all the carry on luggage.

I am personally a "maximum carry-on" guy. However, I would gladly forego this "right" if my bags were presented within ten minutes, as they are overseas, and obn Southwest here, in order to avoid the lines at TSA.

Comments?