Roy M. Silvernail wriote:
Have you flown recently? They now ask you this scripted question about whether you have been approached by anyone you don't know since arriving at the airport, and warn you not to accept anything from a stranger or leave your carry-on baggage unattended until you board the plane. The ticket agent told me it was a "new FAA regulation". I hadn't flown anywhere for a few years. Anyone know how long this has been happening? Goodbye freedom, hello police state. I wonder how long before I need a passport to cross a state line...
The US is merely trying to catch up to what the Europeans have been doing for over a decade. In fact, the US still has a way to go. You ought to pass through Heathrow in London some time to see what real airport security looks like. The US security changes are a recent response, starting after the World Trade Center bombing and being stepped up on a continuing basis. Today you need a picture ID to board with your ticket. Tomorrow...? We have lived in relative safety compared to the rest of the world, but I think those days are over. Usual disclaimer. Bob Bruen.