WASHINGTON -- The government is expanding the ways airline passengers can enroll in an expedited screening program that allows travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belts and keep laptop computers in cases at security checkpoints.Under the Transportation Security Administration's Precheck program, only travelers who were members of the frequent flier programs of some air carriers were eligible for expedited screening. On Friday, TSA Administrator John Pistole said beginning later this year U.S. citizens will be able to enroll online or visit an enrollment site to provide identification, fingerprints and an $85 enrollment fee.
About 12 million people are currently enrolled in the program. Pistole said he expects about another 3 million people to enroll before the end of the year.
Oh, cough up $85.00 and feel safer instantly? I get it. No, I don't get it. More like a bribe to me.
I wish I could drive to New Orleans rather than face the indignity. Oh well, it is what it is.
More later.
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During my working years between 2001 and 2006 when boarding several flights per week, I would have welcomed such a program. I think frequent flying business people should be able to go through a quick checkpoint such as a retinal scan. I do not think that one should have to pay for this, since it could save the TSA a lot of money by knowing who the safer frequent flying public is. Those who fly infrequently such as vacationers would then have shorter lines to stand in.
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