TSA Reform May Be A Plus For Frequent Flyers [VIDEO]
Recent reports that the federal government is planning a reform on how the Transportation Security Administration operates within the borders of the United States. With a reform in the works, this looks promising for many American frequent travelers. Here the deal, if your willing to answer a few personal questions and undergo a "more thorough background" investigation and pay an additional $100 - $150. You could be flying past the pesky TSA security check points.
A survey take by the U.S.T.A. asked over 1,000 travelers how likely they would be to enroll in an airport security program, if it had an annual fee of $100 to $150. 61% of leisure travelers said yes and 75% of business travelers said they would definitely pay a fee to eliminate TSA security hassles at airports.
Transportation Security Administration officials announced it will launch a trusted traveler pilot program this fall. The agency said it will be working with U.S. airlines to find some travel volunteers willing to help structure the new program. A trusted traveler program that is already in operation by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, will be the model that the TSA will pattern itself after. However, this new program will not be available everywhere only a handful of airports will get it in its testing form.
The creation of such a program was one of the recommendations the U.S. Travel Association suggested back in March, when it launched its own plan to reform TSA's security program. Frequent business and leisure travelers expressed opinions that the reform was way overdue.
There have been many inventions in the wake of the 9-11 attacks in the United States. Inventors trying to lessen the embarrassment, privacy invitation, time consumption and frustrations experienced by those who travel frequently. One such invention is the "X-ray Proof Undies." Thousands have been sold, but there's no word on if they will ever (pardon the pun) take off.
Finally, there are things you can do to help yourself get through those security check points. know what the Airport will and won't allow. Educate yourself in advance about "carry-on" weights. and some of the "Do's and Dont's" as I previously blogged about months ago.