Frequent Fliers Sign Up to Ease Security Checks

[Rose Siding]

WASHINGTON, Sept. 4 (Reuters) - About 10,000 people have enrolled in a test program for speeding passengers through airport security checkpoints, Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge said on Friday.

The Registered Traveler program, which screens passengers for potential security risks, is supported by airlines, which are trying to retain their premium business customers and reduce airport wait times.
...

Passengers who clear the screening process receive a card that is scanned each time they check in for a flight. The card enables them to proceed to a special security line, exempting them from a second round of security checks unless they cause suspicion or set off alarms.

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/09/05/politics/05screen.html?ex=1252036800&en=03ab21f930b9db57&ei=5090&partner=rssuserland

[wrang_wrang]

1. Very stupid idea designed to appease bu$ine$$ travelers

After all, Mushammad Atta was a frequesnt flier......
Whatever it takes to boost corporate profits while giving Americans a (false) sense of security in the phony War on Terror.

[PartyPooper]

2. Why not do the same for vintage flyers, too?

Some folks like me have been flying for over 40 years. I'm not a frequent flyer...but, I fly at least 3-4 times a year. I'm sure there's lots of other passengers like me.

Can't we get through security more speedily, too?

:-)

[Vitruvius]

3. And al Qaeda will get or forge those special cards.

They'll find a way...

And one easy way is to simply apply for the card. If the al Qaeda operative is turned down, no problem; they haven't (yet) committed a crime -- so nothing happens to them. If they get the card, then they can bypass most of the security and they're in business...

[Rose Siding]

4. That does seem to be a rather gaping hole in The Plan, doesn't it?

LOL sorta