ADTRAV Travel Management

Possible TSA Body Scanner Boycott Nov. 24

Several groups have announced plans to encourage travelers on Nov. 24 to opt-out of the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) full body scanner machines and opt-in for TSA's enhanced pat-downs. As a result, security check-point delays may occur at some airports on the day that is also known as the busiest travel day of the year. The following information has been prepared by your travel professional, working with the American Society of Travel Agents, to help ease your passage through airport security.

Background
TSA has recently expedited the deployment of new Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machines, also known as body scanners, to help detect concealed metallic and non-metallic threats on passengers. In addition, TSA has recently enhanced its pat-down procedures for passengers that require secondary screening. In response, some consumer groups and bloggers have voiced privacy and health concerns. Yet Janet Napolitano, secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has assured the public in an op-ed article in USA Today that these "machines are safe, efficient, and protect passenger privacy." She has further noted that these machines "have been independently evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, who have all affirmed their safety."

Airport Security Holiday Travel Tips

Before arriving:

Prepare your 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag of liquids before arriving at the airport
Monitor local broadcasts for announcements of security checkpoint delays at local airports
Pack all your coats and jackets in your checked baggage when possible
Do not wrap gifts
Check-in online
Check your flight status online
Review TSA's Security Procedures for "Getting through the Line Faster"
Wear easy to remove and replace shoes
Plan to arrive to the airport earlier than normal

Airport arrival:

Approach the initial security check-point with your drivers' license/passport and paper boarding pass or electronic boarding pass in hand.
While waiting for the next available security screener / metal detector, remove and place in bins:
- all metal (i.e. belt buckle, coins, eye glasses, etc.)
- plastic, zip-top bag of liquids
- items from your pockets, including mobile phone
- shoes
- laptops from bag and place in separate bin
- coat
Do not engage in trash talk about security or do anything else to call attention to yourself - this will only make it worse.
Remember, if you are selected for an enhanced pat-down, you have the right to request it be done in private