New Security Rules Slow Air Passengers

Spokane International Airport isn’t what it used to be.

With beefed-up security mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration in the wake of last week’s TWA disaster, the days of catching a last-minute flight with ease are gone.

On Friday, front-counter bag-check sites and metal-detector screening stations were clogged as clerks inspected passengers and luggage more thoroughly.

Electronic devices like pagers and Walkmans were checked. A passenger taking a soda pop through a security checkpoint was asked to take a sip to prove it wasn’t nitroglycerin.

Todd Woodard, airport spokesman, advises passengers to arrive 30-45 minutes sooner than usual.

“Things are moving a little slower,” Woodard said.

Frequent-flier Bruce Brown said Friday that safety is worth the wait.

John Cassim, who flies more than 100,000 miles per year, agreed.

“I don’t mind waiting in line or being here an hour earlier if it means being safer,” Cassim said.

, DataTimes MEMO: Cut in Spokane