I don't have any problem with random selection for more thorough scrutiny. I do object to random selection or racial-profiling being used to deny boarding.

The only excuse I can see that AF may have is that he was late to check-in (was not there 2 hour prior to flight, or 3 hours as recommended for international travel) and as such there may not have been time to perform the more thorough checks and still make the flight.

If it was a case of him presenting to check-in with insufficient time to complete the thorough security checking and other formalities, then he is not really being denied boarding, but could be considered to have missed the flight due to his late arrival at the airport. Why bother with the formalities if he is not going to make it to the gate before the doors are closed.

Even a congressman does not deserve any special treatment in that case. However, if this was the case, AF should have told him so.

If people could bypass the detailed security checks by showing up late and asking to be excused so they can make the flight, how long would it take for the terrorist manual to updated with that recommendation.