Airport Security and your locked Stuff

[ltdiver 3]

Cross Posted in General Skydiving Discussion.

Had the opportunity to travel a bit this past weekend. From CA to OR and back. I experienced 3 different scenerios with checked luggage going through the new security machines.

1) Ontario, CA : Checked baggage goes through the x-ray machine and disappears from view. If your bag passes, you hear your named called and that it's 'clear'. Next time you see it is at your destination. If they find something, then they call you back for interrogation. If locks are present, they are cut and discarded.

2) Portland, OR: You can witness your luggage going through the x-ray machine and can be present when it is inspected. Nice, especially if you want to keep tabs on what they are doing to your stuff.

The best, however:
3) LAX: You can witness your luggage going through the machine. They will open and inspect it. However, at least with this particular inspector, they will let you lock your bag after inspection and will tag it with a sticker saying it's ok. Nice for those who want to check their camera equipment or rigs.

Any other International airport experiences? I carry my rig and camera helmet on the plane with me, but others might not...

ltdiver

Don't tell me the sky's the limit when there are footprints on the moon

[jfields 0]

Ltdiver,

As discussed in other threads, this whole lack of accountability situation sucks. I'm getting less and less tolerant of the air travel industry. Between poor customer service and the TSA, it is growing so bad that commercial air travel is becoming my last resort.

I bought a hard plastic case to store and transport my gear. It has room for locks, which I intend to use when forced to fly. Unfortunately, I can't plan on taking my rig carry-on. If the airlines are being strict that day, it doesn't technically fit the carry-on dimensions. Maybe I need to downsize about 70 sq. ft. so it would fit.

Kidding, Lisa, KIDDING!