The TSA-approved locks are still new, and are now available in three distinct sizes. A very large four-number combo, a smaller three number combo, both for check-in luggage, and a smaller brass three-number combo for something the size of a carry-on.

My recent experience has been varied.

One lock was cut off, most likely at LAX, as I stood by and watched the check at SFO - who did not have the keys, according to screeners (who were cooperative and helpful.)

On re-checking after Customs in LAX, a guy supervising bag re-checks told me in a very loud tone of voice to "get those locks off those bags". When I informed him they were the TSA approved locks, he glared and heaved my bags to his colleagues. Must not have been his day?

At SMF in December, a friend with TSA locks was delayed briefly - nobody had seen the locks, and though they had keys, the TSA on duty all needed to check it out. Ooh! Aah! 8-o

When I can, I still fly with carry-ons only, with small combo locks, as above largely deterrents for would-be stealthy thieves in a hurry.

Keep travelin'

What good is using a lock on your luggage that uses keys in wide distribution? If someone wants to steal something, won't they simply break the flimsy little lock off? Will the luggage theives not also collect the list of key codes and a set of keys?

So what is the secret procedure I should follow if I put a TSA approved lock on my bags and it gets removed?

The FAQ now contains a reference to "recognized locking mechanism".

Because if something is missing from your bag and the lock is still present, then you have "proof" that TSA stole it.

One major problem with the current system is that the airlines and TSA blame each other when your stuff is stolen, and neither takes responsiblity. If only TSA has the keys to the locks, it theoretically should make it easier to hold them accountable for the losses we all know are occuring.