The Frequent Traveler

THE TICKET Archive

<< **NewsBite from: THE TICKET Newsletter**>>

DATE: Wednesday, Feb 21, 2002

RE: Express Lanes Phased Out By TSA (Part II below)

Dear Readers: In one of its first acts since taking over airport security functions last weekend, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has ordered airlines and airports to eliminate the exclusive screening lines set up to accomodate elite level, first and business class passengers. Y

Yesterday, a Delta spokesperson told THE TICKET: "Delta's elite security lanes remain open at this time in Atlanta and five other cities. They will remain open until further notice from the TSA. However the lines at Delta hubs in in Cincinnati and Salt Lake City have closed." The TSA claims that the lines must be eliminated to help standardize and democratize the security screening process.

Our take: The youthful TSA has unwittingly stepped into a hornet's nest with this move. It is going to have to deal with the wrath of some very influential frequent travelers, corporations, and even major airlines, all of whom have some to rely on the lines as a way to keep business travelers flying.

Stay tuned for the next issue of THE TICKET for more information on this very hot topic! Your thoughts are welcome! mailto:ticketatl@travelskills.com -----\ I

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PART II

<<**Newsbite from THE TICKET Newsletter**>>

DATE: Friday, Feb 22, 2002

FROM: ticketatl@travelskills.com

RE: TSA Modifies Express Lane Hardline

Dear Readers: After issuing some rather strong language yesterday about the fairness of special security lines for frequent travelers, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) seems to have adopted a modified stance. (As predicted, your response to this announcement was swift and vitriolic. Thanks for all your emails.)

Bottom line: Don’t fret. The separate and exclusive security lines set up post 9/11 will remain in operation.

Here’s the deal: Premium airline customers will still have access to airline-managed, exclusive security LINES. However, the TSA will forbid the airlines from setting aside specific security screening machines and metal detectors for frequent travelers. This means that elite level travelers will have access to an exclusive, shorter, and faster moving LINE that leads to the security screening area. This line will be managed by airline employees (not TSA screeners), which will allow premium passengers to get to the head of the line much faster than non- premium flyers. (Think of how the Delta Medallion line works at the ticket counter: You stand in line, and you are directed to the first available agent, ahead of non-medallion travelers. We assume the process for security screening will be similar.)

Stay tuned to the next issue of THE TICKET to learn how Delta is going to modify its process for gold and platinum medallions, and first and business class passengers at Hartsfield, where it has been using four exclusive machines and screeners.

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