Searching for answers on how to remedy the pains of today’s commercial airline traveler, the TSA performed extensive focus groups, asking what would make the airport experience a bit more efficient. The consensus is in — self-segregation.
In response to the people’s request, the TSA has instituted the “Black Diamond” program (stolen from the ski term meaning “expert skier”) at 12 airports across the country. Under this program, travelers are asked to choose their line based on travel experience and requirements: expert fliers, casual travelers, and families or people with special needs.
According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ article here) this week, travelers are skeptical on the opportunity to rank themselves against other travelers to see who is a larger safety threat and who should be able to get through TSA security faster. The big question is, “what is an expert”, and “who gets to judge”?
These question have the internet buzzing.
In theory, it makes sense. Just like automobile traffic, you can keep the slow cars in the slow lane, and the fast cars in the fast lane (even though we are all supposed to be going the same speed).
Like traffic, the problem comes when a slow car decides to take the fast lane.
In this case, the other problem comes in policing. Does this mean we will now need more TSA regulation and scrutiny to prove that we are not only safe/”good” travelers, but also are now “expert” travelers?
This summer will be an interesting time for travelers.
While we’re stuck at our desks, please let us what its like out there!
What a good idea. But, as you say, it will only work as long as people follow the rules. And, as most frequent fliers will concur, your average tourist leaves their brain and sense at home. You might enjoy the following post:
http://caughtinthemiddleman.wordpress.com/2007/03/08/planes-trains-automobiles-part-1/
ps. I am also in favour of segregated shopping lanes or reserved hours for elderley people. See the attached:
http://caughtinthemiddleman.wordpress.com/2007/07/20/the-times-they-are-a-changin-part-4/
[...] Lanes This Summer Posted on August 29, 2008 by cutleroke At the start of summer, we reported that the TSA was instituting “self-segregation” airport security lines at twelve [...]