TSA & New Airport Security Options

As we head into Thanksgiving, and in light of the current and planned protests of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) by both pilots and regular folks, I wanted to share some food for thought on airport security in 2010. With a nod to Pierce Brosnan‘s Tony Blair-esque character in The Ghost Writer, I want you to consider an airport with the following two options for travelers:

(1) Certain airplanes are only available for use by people who tolerate significant privacy infringements by TSA personnel during security screening, including scanning of all carry-on items, removal of shoes and all metal items from one’s person, full-body image scanners, pat-downs, and other mildly degrading security measures. No exceptions. Any travelers observed acting suspiciously will receive extra attention.

(2) Certain airplanes are available to everyone, but the security screening procedures will be minimal. Luggage may be scanned, but personal privacy will not be invaded, no pat-downs for suspicious persons, no profiling, and all Fourth Amendment rights will remain fully intact.

Now, which security line would you get in with your family?

- Matt

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