I flew about 50K miles on DL and NW during the first half of 2008. My trips included four visits to LAN connecting through CVG, MSP, and DTW. Like most FT memebrs, I find little value in the TSA's "important" mission.

Has anyone else noticed that LAN's TSA people are above average in their rudeness and that security screening is relatively a bigger pain that at other airports? It's like they really work at being difficult, and there is a strong feeling of overkill. I swear, I almost told them to tone it down before someone actually mistook "security theatre" for something more serious.

I flew out of there on Tuesday (07/01) afternoon, and the place was pretty dead. After three "any liquids or gels" questions (with my kip bag already in the bin), I passed through the metal detector and was immediately ushered to a seat so my hands could be tested for bomb residue. The next victim had his kip bag tested for residue, and then told me that LAN TSA people are the most intense anywhere. I have definitely observed that in my recent trips to LAN.

From my experience, when things get slow, TSA folks in general either stand around or get busy harassing the few passengers who happen to be passing through security. LAN TSA always does the latter.

Anyone else have observations about LAN?

I used to fly through there almost monthly until about a year ago. Always got the sense that the place was way overstaffed. It was also the only place where I would regularly get secondary or get hassled about liquids. Also, I always wondered why they didn't have an agent guarding the exit like they do in other airports.