Airport Security Improves

Satisfaction with airport security procedures has improved, according to a survey conducted by Travel Leaders. When asked about their satisfaction with airport security, 87.5% of 2,719 consumers surveyed said they are satisfied or neutral, up from 82% last year.

Travel Leaders also asked if the Transportation Security Administration’s Pre✓™ expedited screening program makes a significant difference in security screening time. The majority of respondents, 62.7%, said they don’t know, which may be because 60% said they had not experienced expedited screening during the past year.

Membership in the Pre✓ program is a top recommendation for travelers who want to move through airport security more quickly. At reserved screening lanes in 118 U.S. airports, Pre✓ members can keep on their shoes, light outerwear and belts; keep laptops in their cases; and keep liquids/gels in their carry-on bags. Pre✓ membership is available to the customers of a growing list of airlines: Sun Country recently became the 11th airline in the program, joining Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest, United, US Airways and Virgin America.

If you’re not a member of Pre✓, ask your travel professional about joining the program. And, if you’re not part of the program, there are still lots of things you can do to smooth your path through airport security. Preparation is the key:

·         Place your plastic bag of toiletries and other items in liquid or gel form, which you’ll need to put into a bin at the security checkpoint, in an accessible part of your carry-on bag. The same goes for your computer.

·         If you plan to wear a belt with a metal buckle or large pieces of metal jewelry, consider packing them in your carry-on bag until you are through security – if you wear them and forget to put them in screening bins, it will hold you up. Also, if possible, wear shoes that slip off and on easily.

·         Before entering the airport, check your pockets. Remove anything you find – spare change, tissues, your cell phone, car keys – and put them in your carry-on bag.

·         Have you picture ID or passport and your boarding pass in hand as you approach the screening checkpoint. As soon as these items have been checked, put them back in your bag so they won’t be misplaced.

·         If possible, choose a screening line with more people in business attire and fewer families with strollers and diaper bags. Put your liquids/gels, computer, jacket and shoes into bins on the conveyor belt, followed by your bag. Now, you’re ready to pass through a scanner and be on your way. Happy traveling!