Bangkok Post article about baggage handling in the US
 

I thought this article in the Bangkok Post was interesting

It shows the impression that some people outside the US have of the Homeland Security tactics. Based on the knowledge I've gleaned from this forum, some of the statements are probably incorrect but it doesn't paint a very nice picture. I thought this comment from Singapore Airlines was interesting:

The Bangkok Post is one of the 2 English language newspapers in Thailand and while it's debatable as a source of balanced news, it is interesting to see the Asian perspective of things being done in the name of Homeland Security

While I agree that the article is not exactly a shining example of objective journalism (it actually seems to be an opinion column or a feature article), I think the basic message behind it is valid.

The current system in the US with regard to checked luggage is a disgrace. What is worse is that there is no recourse whatsoever available to the traveller for wrecked bags (if they were locked) or lost items (if they weren't). Why doesn't the TSA just admit they want to achieve total aviation security by ensuring no one in their right mind would ever fly? :mad:

Does anyone have any current feedback on the effectiveness of TSA approved locks? I'm curious as to whether they actually work as intended, ie are your bags opened and then locked again after inspection, or are they simply cut off with the nearest suitable implement like a non approved lock?

Whenever you arrive from a foreign land (even a simple flight from Canada), your connecting bags reach the TSA tenticles. This causes a lot of baggage delays, which airlines have to absorb the cost involving getting the bag to the customer. I'm surprised it hasn't changed since it costs the airlines dough.

As for the TSA locks, it depends on which TSAer is involved. Some know about the locks, some will cut any lock on the spot.

I've had both happen.

I was not happy when it happened once even after I told the TSA goon at HNL they were TSA locks. :td: :mad: :rolleyes: