goalie

"Escorted" is just that-escorted. No touching. Yes, other than during a pat-down, A TSO cannot touch a pax but if one does not comply with being "escorted", a LEO will be called and then you will be "escorted"

RockyMtnScotsman

If I'm standing in line prior to reaching TDC and ignore the attempt to be accosted by a TSO I don't see how an LEO would have RAS to detain anyone.

MDtR-Chicago

On Tuesday in the UA Elite checkpoint, they were doing this and it was so silly...

Walked up to the usual Airserv person who glanced at my BP. Then directly next to her was the first TSO. She checked my ID and gave me a nice checkmark on my BP. (Haven't had that kind of treatment since primary school. The validation felt great.) Didn't have to pronounce my name to her.

Then, at the end of the line, was the regular TDC, verifying the ID again, and asking me to pronounce my name.

So, in the space of about 20 feet, THREE people have looked at my BP, and two my ID.

I counted around 7 or 8 uniformed security people working the checkpoint, yet they managed to only keep ONE lane open.

What an absolute waste.

SFOSpiff

I would have asked for a happy face sticker. The scratch-and-sniff kind. Apple-scented, or maybe cinnamon.

dok9874

Gov't to test risk-based airport screening


http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories...MPLATE=DEFAULT

goalie

That's not risk based screening but pre-clearing once you have been accepted into the program.

Risk based screening (imho) would be picking out the guy wearing a leather jacket and a sweater at LAS or PHX in August when it's 115 degrees outside and asking him a few questions* simply because it's doesn't look right for the current situation.



*I wear the same bomber/A2 leather jacket and sweater each and every time I fly and that has never ever happened to me at LAS, PHX or any other place where it is extremely hot

Superguy

Not only that, TSA has told the courts that the checkpoint didn't start until you got to the airline revenue protector TDC.

JoeBas

Anyone think this is the version of "TSA Poker"?

SFO starts asking names.
Others start asking names.
SFO "Raises" to have people asking BEFORE you get there.
When someone else "calls", maybe they'll have people asking in the entrance to the airport... or the off ramp...

chollie

fixed it.

WillCAD

I was toying with the idea of trying that when I fly next, but frankly, I'm quite nervous about doing anything that would prompt TSOs to retaliate against me.

For all the bluster we see on the boards about how TSOs have no police powers, can't do this and can't do that, "it's assault and I'll press charges," etc., the truth is that they hold most of the cards. At bear minimum, a TSO can retaliate against a traveler by denying flight, and may possibly be able to get you on a list for permanent additional screening, permanent denial of flight, and if they choose to lie to a LEO, or the LEO is a TSA sympathizer, they may even be able to get you arrested.

So, I'd really like to try the throat point and head shake, but I may chicken out when I get there.

Wally Bird

It wouldn't be chickening out, just being pragmatic. Pretty much all those posting here about what they will do at the checkpoint are keyboard warriors; you can count on your figures those who might actually be prepared to follow through.

The TSA workers do indeed have the ability to impose severe sanctions. It isn't right, it likely isn't legal (although the courts don't have the cojones to say so) and it isn't ethical or moral. "So what ?" is their standard comeback and they won't hesitate to ruin your whole day, or worse.

If one is not prepared to miss a flight, have a chat with various TSA ranks and possibly a LEO then one is entirely subservient to what ever caprices they feel like. If you make a stand then more power to you, but I'm not going to judge or criticize if you decide not to.

knotyeagle

Gee Wally Bird, why did it take me 1.25 hours to get thru Denver's checkpoint on 16 June 2011 with a total of 9 TSA screeners (2 BDO's, assorted lead screeners & supervisors plus even Steve Teduci the screening manager) then?

I give no quarter. Not that my nom-de-plume is Thomas Paine but I'm not really that anonymous in my postings on how to deal with errant TSA screeners.

Wally Bird

Did you miss the part of my post which said that some would indeed follow through on their intent ?

Good for you, but I stand by my assertion that the majority will not. (Not that there's anything wrong with that )

bdschobel

Wow. I have rarely battled TSA for 1.25 hours straight, but I routinely go 30 minutes toe-to-toe with them. One advantage that people like us have is that we've done this so often, we know the rules as well as (if not better than) they do, and we aren't flustered or intimidated by them. I can well imagine that the first time someone engages the TSA in battle, it's pretty scary. I wish that more people would take the plunge and feel the satisfaction of putting these tin-horn dictators in their place. Extra points for maintaining a calm demeanor, even smiling, and not showing any sign that you give a damn about their threats.

Bruce