Security At Airports Unlikely To Ease Up, Even If Lines Grow Get There Early And Get Used To It

No matter how long the lines grow at airports this holiday season, airport security isn’t likely to be relaxed anytime soon.

“I think you’ll only see more, not less, security in the future,” said Marty Salfen, vice president of the International Airline Passengers Association, a group of frequent business flyers.

On Wednesday, for example, the Federal Aviation Administration issued new rules to restrict airport workers’ access to secure areas.

“There’s been so much brought to light about the holes in security,” said Salfen, “and frankly, passengers don’t seem to mind that much if longer lines mean that they’ll be safe.”

So air travelers simply have to get used to the procedures, which were tightened this summer after terrorist threats and the crash of TWA Flight 800. Aviation officials and travel experts agree that passengers can take the angst out of air travel by planning ahead.

“Just get here early,” said Cathy Gaskell, a spokeswoman for San Jose International Airport. “We find most people stressing and not able to enjoy their trips because they haven’t allowed themselves enough time.”

During the holidays, airport officials are calling on passengers to add an extra 30 minutes to the one-hour recommended leeway for domestic flights and the two hours that’s standard for check-in on international flights.

FAA spokesman Mark Hess said he knows of only isolated incidents of flight delays due to heightened security. But he said the tougher measures have slowed down lines and demand more patience from travelers.

“People can really help to speed things up by following a few, simple suggestions,” Hess said.

Passengers should also be aware of their baggage at all times, added Mark Pesce, a spokesman for Philadelphia International Airport.

Pesce’s advise isn’t offered solely to avoid bomb scares caused by unattended luggage, however.

A recent article in Consumer Reports outlined a new airport scam, with laptop computers the target.

Thieves work in pairs and watch for travelers placing computers and other valuables on X-ray conveyor belts at security checkpoints, the magazine said. One thief gets in line in front of the intended victim and clears the metal detector. The other sets it off to create a diversion, while his accomplice grabs the goods emerging from the X-ray.

Checking baggage might be better for security, but brings its own problems.

Burdened with Christmas presents and other goodies, travelers tend to carry more baggage with them during the holiday season, airline officials say, often exceeding bag-check limits.

Skis, snowboards and other holiday sporting equipment can be substituted for one piece of free baggage travelers are allowed to check with each ticket. But golf clubs and bicycles often require special packaging and are subject to added transport fees.

Musicians traveling to perform in a traditional holiday quartet should be advised, however: Most airlines require a traveler to buy an adult-fare ticket for their cello or bass violin. And while the instruments take up a seat, they can’t get additional meals or frequent flyer miles.

Don’t wrap holiday gifts before air travel. Airport security will open any wrapped packages.

Do not joke about bombs or firearms. Penalties can be severe, including prison time and/or fines.

Be prepared to turn on electronic devices such as tape players, computers and cellular phones to verify they are what they seem. For speed, you may want to leave these home, or check them in your luggage.

Properly tag all baggage with names, addresses and telephone numbers. Travelers should be prepared to answer questions about their bags.

MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: TRAVEL TIPS Suggestions for air travel Don’t leave cars unattended in front of airport terminals. A family late for a flight recently at Baltimore-Washington International Airport abandoned their rental car at the terminal. Later, the suspicious vehicle caused the terminal to be closed and inspected by security officers, causing delays. Bring photo identification. Those without photo ID can bring two pieces of non-picture identification, provided that one is government-issued (such as a Social Security or voter registration card). Young children may not need identification.