Another first-hand account of the new patdowns...
Nov 7, 2010, 6:23 pm
#91
Join Date: Oct 2010
Posts: 449
Another first hand account
Here's another one: http://www.pixiq.com/article/the-airport-security-grope
All my gear was brought into the area to be swabbed and examined, and then the agent started to pat me down. No wand, just the hands...everywhere! Up the legs, into the groin (even a jab into the genitals) down and up both legs. Other travelers stopped to watch, some gasping in surprise. Kathy protested from outside the enclosure: "Tell him you’re married, and only your wife gets to touch you there.” He laughed, but pushed on. This was getting WAAAAAY too personal. The TSA agent placed his gloves into the magic spectra sniffer. Then they collected me, my photo gear and another TSA agent of higher rank and without explanation escorted me to a private room where they groped me again and swabbed everything again, decided that I'm not a terrorist after all, invited me to file a complaint, and let me go, with nearly an hour lost.
Remember that recent U.S. president who famously said of terrorists, “They hate our freedom?” My most urgent suggestion to you and anyone you know who is subjected to this invasive and ineffective new policy is to file a formal complaint, every single time. The government needs to be reminded that we as citizens and residents of the United States have different expectations. Otherwise, by mutely allowing ourselves to be violated by agents of our own government, or by standing silently while fragile old women are literally assaulted in public, we are letting our freedoms go without a murmur.
Nov 7, 2010, 6:45 pm
#92
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: SEA
Posts: 2,556
Searching for information regarding what to expect at the airport I came across this website: http://afausairways.org/Safety/oct29tsa_10.htm
I cannot verify that the information it gives is in fact accurate and from the TSA, but it seems to be. I’d prefer to get such information directly from the TSA itself, but have been unable to get such information from their webpage.
Regarding the “new pat-down procedures”:
“When conducting a standard pat down, a same-gender TSA screener will use a sliding method to verify external areas of the body…includ(ing) sliding his/her gloved hand up each leg until resistance is met. Additionally, the screener will slide his/her gloved hand across the groin…Anything unusual detected during screening must be resolved. Resolution pat-down procedures will be utilized at this point. Private screening…will be utilized at all times when it is necessary to resolve an anomaly that is detected.”
“The enhanced pat-down measures apply to individuals who:
· Elect not to be screened by an AIT – or
· When screened by AIT, anomalies are detected – or
· When screened by walk through metal detector, set off alarm that cannot be easily resolved”
This tells me that, yes, the TSA employee may slide his hand across "the groin" (your private, genital area). In his judgment if the feel of the genital area is not what he was expecting it to be then he declares that there is an “anomaly”. Then, a “private screening” (away from public view) will be conducted “at all times” in such a case. The only way that I can figure that a genital area anomaly can be resolved is by a removal of clothing and physical inspection of the genital area by a TSA employee. I hope I am wrong about this. If anyone has TSA-provided assurances to the contrary, please let us know.
I cannot verify that the information it gives is in fact accurate and from the TSA, but it seems to be. I’d prefer to get such information directly from the TSA itself, but have been unable to get such information from their webpage.
Regarding the “new pat-down procedures”:
“When conducting a standard pat down, a same-gender TSA screener will use a sliding method to verify external areas of the body…includ(ing) sliding his/her gloved hand up each leg until resistance is met. Additionally, the screener will slide his/her gloved hand across the groin…Anything unusual detected during screening must be resolved. Resolution pat-down procedures will be utilized at this point. Private screening…will be utilized at all times when it is necessary to resolve an anomaly that is detected.”
“The enhanced pat-down measures apply to individuals who:
· Elect not to be screened by an AIT – or
· When screened by AIT, anomalies are detected – or
· When screened by walk through metal detector, set off alarm that cannot be easily resolved”
This tells me that, yes, the TSA employee may slide his hand across "the groin" (your private, genital area). In his judgment if the feel of the genital area is not what he was expecting it to be then he declares that there is an “anomaly”. Then, a “private screening” (away from public view) will be conducted “at all times” in such a case. The only way that I can figure that a genital area anomaly can be resolved is by a removal of clothing and physical inspection of the genital area by a TSA employee. I hope I am wrong about this. If anyone has TSA-provided assurances to the contrary, please let us know.
Nov 7, 2010, 7:03 pm
#93
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: DFW
Posts: 28,115
Continuing from the same article:
I'm sure eyecue, TSORon, SATTSO, tsadude1, or TSOLogan will be along in a moment to tell us this did not happen.
edit to add: and it just keeps getting better, same article:
While I was in the room for “private screening,” Kathy and other travelers watched in embarrassment and horror as a sweet-faced, white-haired, old woman with an artificial hip and a long skirt (she had the calm and grace of a nun) was subjected to the same treatment from a female TSA agent, who warned her loudly in advance that she was going to touch “breasts” and “genitals.” When offered the “private screening” room, the lady hesitated. Everybody knows that when the government wants to take you into a private room at the airport, it’s not going to be good. So of course the woman chose to be violated and humiliated in public, with witnesses.
edit to add: and it just keeps getting better, same article:
Other writers have noted that the new aggressive TSA pat-down policy is meant to be so reprehensible that, when faced with a choice between the full-body back-scatter scanners that render an image of your nude body or a physical pat-down, everyone will choose the scanner as the lesser (or faster) invasion of privacy.
Last edited by Boggie Dog; Nov 7, 2010 at 7:09 pm
Nov 7, 2010, 7:09 pm
#94
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: North of DFW
Programs: AA PLT, HH Gold, TSA Disparager Gold, going for Platnium
Posts: 1,535
Im still waiting on the first report of a clerk getting cuffed for Sexual assault/battery and/or getting the tar beaten out of them by someone. Thats the only way TSA seems to learn is when they get there ... handed to them physically or in court, and even then sometimes it has to be repeated.
Nov 7, 2010, 7:14 pm
#95
Join Date: Sep 2006
Posts: 6,967
will result in that treatment.
We go back to the bulky clothing issue. If it is bulky and does not cling to the body then it should be subject to secondary screening. A dress fits this definition.
Nov 7, 2010, 9:03 pm
#96
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: California. USA
Posts: 1,404
Searching for information regarding what to expect at the airport I came across this website: http://afausairways.org/Safety/oct29tsa_10.htm
I cannot verify that the information it gives is in fact accurate and from the TSA, but it seems to be. I’d prefer to get such information directly from the TSA itself, but have been unable to get such information from their webpage.
Regarding the “new pat-down procedures”:
“When conducting a standard pat down, a same-gender TSA screener will use a sliding method to verify external areas of the body…includ(ing) sliding his/her gloved hand up each leg until resistance is met. Additionally, the screener will slide his/her gloved hand across the groin…Anything unusual detected during screening must be resolved. Resolution pat-down procedures will be utilized at this point. Private screening…will be utilized at all times when it is necessary to resolve an anomaly that is detected.”
“The enhanced pat-down measures apply to individuals who:
· Elect not to be screened by an AIT – or
· When screened by AIT, anomalies are detected – or
· When screened by walk through metal detector, set off alarm that cannot be easily resolved”
This tells me that, yes, the TSA employee may slide his hand across "the groin" (your private, genital area). In his judgment if the feel of the genital area is not what he was expecting it to be then he declares that there is an “anomaly”. Then, a “private screening” (away from public view) will be conducted “at all times” in such a case. The only way that I can figure that a genital area anomaly can be resolved is by a removal of clothing and physical inspection of the genital area by a TSA employee. I hope I am wrong about this. If anyone has TSA-provided assurances to the contrary, please let us know.
I cannot verify that the information it gives is in fact accurate and from the TSA, but it seems to be. I’d prefer to get such information directly from the TSA itself, but have been unable to get such information from their webpage.
Regarding the “new pat-down procedures”:
“When conducting a standard pat down, a same-gender TSA screener will use a sliding method to verify external areas of the body…includ(ing) sliding his/her gloved hand up each leg until resistance is met. Additionally, the screener will slide his/her gloved hand across the groin…Anything unusual detected during screening must be resolved. Resolution pat-down procedures will be utilized at this point. Private screening…will be utilized at all times when it is necessary to resolve an anomaly that is detected.”
“The enhanced pat-down measures apply to individuals who:
· Elect not to be screened by an AIT – or
· When screened by AIT, anomalies are detected – or
· When screened by walk through metal detector, set off alarm that cannot be easily resolved”
This tells me that, yes, the TSA employee may slide his hand across "the groin" (your private, genital area). In his judgment if the feel of the genital area is not what he was expecting it to be then he declares that there is an “anomaly”. Then, a “private screening” (away from public view) will be conducted “at all times” in such a case. The only way that I can figure that a genital area anomaly can be resolved is by a removal of clothing and physical inspection of the genital area by a TSA employee. I hope I am wrong about this. If anyone has TSA-provided assurances to the contrary, please let us know.
We are all different.
Nov 7, 2010, 9:22 pm
#97
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: MSP
Programs: Fallen Plats, ex-WN CP, DYKWIW; still a Hilton Diamond & Club Cholula™ R.I.P. Super Plats
Posts: 25,415
Then, a “private screening” (away from public view) will be conducted “at all times” in such a case. The only way that I can figure that a genital area anomaly can be resolved is by a removal of clothing and physical inspection of the genital area by a TSA employee. I hope I am wrong about this.
When confronted with this questions, the TSA personnel in FT consistently avoid answering it.
Nov 10, 2010, 12:59 pm
#98
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Nashville, TN
Programs: WN Nothing and spending the half million points from too many flights, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 8,043
Weird
Sorry to bump and old thread, but I wanted to find one on topic.
I just cleared, and I am still mystified by this. First, very small AP only about 50 people in the place, so do not ask me to identify it, maybe later.
The guy went through the WTMD in front of me, and while I was standing waiting my turn, the screener patted the guy all over the upper torso, front and back, front of hands, made him pull his shirt up over his navel and then ran his hands down in his pants all of the way around. It was unsettling. As I went through, I was ready to ask for clean gloves, he ran his hands down the guys pants and is standing there with the same gloves on. But, when I came through, nothing.
Just weird.
I just cleared, and I am still mystified by this. First, very small AP only about 50 people in the place, so do not ask me to identify it, maybe later.
The guy went through the WTMD in front of me, and while I was standing waiting my turn, the screener patted the guy all over the upper torso, front and back, front of hands, made him pull his shirt up over his navel and then ran his hands down in his pants all of the way around. It was unsettling. As I went through, I was ready to ask for clean gloves, he ran his hands down the guys pants and is standing there with the same gloves on. But, when I came through, nothing.
Just weird.
Nov 10, 2010, 2:08 pm
#99
Join Date: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,444
Sorry to bump and old thread, but I wanted to find one on topic.
I just cleared, and I am still mystified by this. First, very small AP only about 50 people in the place, so do not ask me to identify it, maybe later.
The guy went through the WTMD in front of me, and while I was standing waiting my turn, the screener patted the guy all over the upper torso, front and back, front of hands, made him pull his shirt up over his navel and then ran his hands down in his pants all of the way around. It was unsettling. As I went through, I was ready to ask for clean gloves, he ran his hands down the guys pants and is standing there with the same gloves on. But, when I came through, nothing.
Just weird.
I just cleared, and I am still mystified by this. First, very small AP only about 50 people in the place, so do not ask me to identify it, maybe later.
The guy went through the WTMD in front of me, and while I was standing waiting my turn, the screener patted the guy all over the upper torso, front and back, front of hands, made him pull his shirt up over his navel and then ran his hands down in his pants all of the way around. It was unsettling. As I went through, I was ready to ask for clean gloves, he ran his hands down the guys pants and is standing there with the same gloves on. But, when I came through, nothing.
Just weird.
Nov 10, 2010, 7:08 pm
#100
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 38,410
http://www.infowars.com/tsa-fondles-...body-scanners/
Woman who works for Alex Jones describes a "pat down" that was quite invasive. What's interesting is that it was a MALE TSA doing this genital groping on the woman giving the narrative (Michelle). After he was done with her, he tried to pat down her two girls (2 and 8) and Michelle demanded a female TSA for their children.
Woman who works for Alex Jones describes a "pat down" that was quite invasive. What's interesting is that it was a MALE TSA doing this genital groping on the woman giving the narrative (Michelle). After he was done with her, he tried to pat down her two girls (2 and 8) and Michelle demanded a female TSA for their children.
Nov 10, 2010, 10:32 pm
#101
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Join Date: Oct 2006
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Posts: 12,509
Here's another description of the gropes on a union website courtesy of Google. Just type in "AFA USAirways TSA" and this was the second result:
Copied below are the new TSA procedures.
*Please be aware that this message contains Sensitive Security Information*
InFlight Service
Special Security Briefing
New Secondary Screening Measures
29 October 2010
Please see the following link to view the Wings posting regarding the InFlight Special Security Briefing.
http://wings.usairways.com/uswings/workgroups/inflight
Recent events have brought to light the need for additional measures to protect our employees and customers against acts of unlawful interference. While security measures often seem extreme and unpleasant to customers and employees, it is important that we do not become complacent or forget their importance. US Airways continues to work with TSA and our airline associations in an effort to minimize service disruption, while ensuring a safe and secure environment for all of us.
New Pat-Down Procedures
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is implementing standardized, enhanced pat down procedures at airports nationwide effective October 29, 2010. The enhanced procedures apply to all individuals subject to secondary screening measures at airport checkpoint, including crewmembers and employees. The standard procedures also apply to airport employees who are currently subject to random screening at other access points within the airport environment.
Enhanced Screening Measures
It is important to note that walk through metal detector (magnetometer) alarms and Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) anomalies (i.e. wallets, watches, belts etc) maybe immediately resolved with no further action required. Customers and employees, who assist the TSA screener in identifying possible reasons for an anomaly, may avoid subjecting themselves to advanced screening measures (described below). The enhanced pat-down measures apply to individuals who:
Elect not to be screened by an AIT – or
When screened by AIT, anomalies are detected – or
When screened by walk through metal detector, set off alarm that cannot be easily resolved –or
At an alternate access door, are selected for random screening
Pat-Down Procedures
When conducting a standard pat down, a same-gender TSA screener will use a sliding method to verify external areas of the body for weapons or explosive materials. This process includes sliding his/her gloved hand up each leg until resistance is met. Additionally, the screener will slide his/her gloved hand across the groin and buttocks areas and under the breast area. If any anomalies are detected, the screener may resolve it by swiping inside the collar or waistband as necessary. Anything unusual detected during screening must be resolved. Resolution pat-down procedures will be utilized at this point. Private screening (upon request) is available to all passengers & crew members at any time in the screening process and will be utilized at all times when it is necessary to resolve an anomaly that is detected. If a resolution pat-down is necessary, two same-gender TSA screeners will be present and the individual being screened may bring a travel companion to the private screening area.
Copied below are the new TSA procedures.
*Please be aware that this message contains Sensitive Security Information*
InFlight Service
Special Security Briefing
New Secondary Screening Measures
29 October 2010
Please see the following link to view the Wings posting regarding the InFlight Special Security Briefing.
http://wings.usairways.com/uswings/workgroups/inflight
Recent events have brought to light the need for additional measures to protect our employees and customers against acts of unlawful interference. While security measures often seem extreme and unpleasant to customers and employees, it is important that we do not become complacent or forget their importance. US Airways continues to work with TSA and our airline associations in an effort to minimize service disruption, while ensuring a safe and secure environment for all of us.
New Pat-Down Procedures
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is implementing standardized, enhanced pat down procedures at airports nationwide effective October 29, 2010. The enhanced procedures apply to all individuals subject to secondary screening measures at airport checkpoint, including crewmembers and employees. The standard procedures also apply to airport employees who are currently subject to random screening at other access points within the airport environment.
Enhanced Screening Measures
It is important to note that walk through metal detector (magnetometer) alarms and Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) anomalies (i.e. wallets, watches, belts etc) maybe immediately resolved with no further action required. Customers and employees, who assist the TSA screener in identifying possible reasons for an anomaly, may avoid subjecting themselves to advanced screening measures (described below). The enhanced pat-down measures apply to individuals who:
Elect not to be screened by an AIT – or
When screened by AIT, anomalies are detected – or
When screened by walk through metal detector, set off alarm that cannot be easily resolved –or
At an alternate access door, are selected for random screening
Pat-Down Procedures
When conducting a standard pat down, a same-gender TSA screener will use a sliding method to verify external areas of the body for weapons or explosive materials. This process includes sliding his/her gloved hand up each leg until resistance is met. Additionally, the screener will slide his/her gloved hand across the groin and buttocks areas and under the breast area. If any anomalies are detected, the screener may resolve it by swiping inside the collar or waistband as necessary. Anything unusual detected during screening must be resolved. Resolution pat-down procedures will be utilized at this point. Private screening (upon request) is available to all passengers & crew members at any time in the screening process and will be utilized at all times when it is necessary to resolve an anomaly that is detected. If a resolution pat-down is necessary, two same-gender TSA screeners will be present and the individual being screened may bring a travel companion to the private screening area.
Last edited by N965VJ; Nov 10, 2010 at 10:56 pm
Nov 10, 2010, 11:08 pm
#102
Join Date: Jul 2005
Posts: 303
I have a problem with the following statements:
"The Union continues to work toward a policy that exempts crew members from screening.
We realize the new measures are extremely personal and intrusive and that is why Afa will continue our fight to exempt crew members from this type of screening."
If the new measures are so "extremely personal and intrustive" for anyone, then they are for everyone.
"The Union continues to work toward a policy that exempts crew members from screening.
We realize the new measures are extremely personal and intrusive and that is why Afa will continue our fight to exempt crew members from this type of screening."
If the new measures are so "extremely personal and intrustive" for anyone, then they are for everyone.
Nov 10, 2010, 11:14 pm
#103
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Marriott or Hilton hot tub with a big drink <glub> Beverage: To-Go Bag™ DYKWIA: SSSS /rolleyes ☈ Date Night: Costco
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True, but remember that this is standard boilerplate language that the various airline unions use, while omitting the fact that the costs of implementing CrewPASS will be borne by the individual airlines, not the TSA.
Nov 11, 2010, 12:00 am
#104
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: MSP
Programs: Fallen Plats, ex-WN CP, DYKWIW; still a Hilton Diamond & Club Cholula™ R.I.P. Super Plats
Posts: 25,415
I have a problem with the following statements:
"The Union continues to work toward a policy that exempts crew members from screening.
We realize the new measures are extremely personal and intrusive and that is why Afa will continue our fight to exempt crew members from this type of screening."
If the new measures are so "extremely personal and intrustive" for anyone, then they are for everyone.
"The Union continues to work toward a policy that exempts crew members from screening.
We realize the new measures are extremely personal and intrusive and that is why Afa will continue our fight to exempt crew members from this type of screening."
If the new measures are so "extremely personal and intrustive" for anyone, then they are for everyone.
We just need to keep the pressure on.