Don’T Be Alarmed By Security
The big guy with the enormous silver belt buckle starts undressing before he even reaches the front of the line.
Obviously, he is a seasoned traveler.
He hands the security guard the buckle, plops his janitor-sized key ring and mini piggy bank of pocket change into a plastic bowl and walks through the metal detector at Spokane International Airport, buzz-free.
He grabs his belongings and heads for his airplane without delay.
It isn’t always that easy.
Most travelers at one time or another have found themselves frantically searching for some elusive item that triggers the metal detector’s annoying alarm. Is it the Timex? The underwire bra? The artificial hip?
Two unsuccessful passes lands a person out of line, forced to assume an arresting stance (arms out, legs apart) while a security guard searches for the offending metal with a hand wand.
Who knew chewing gum wrappers could set off an alert?
Even travelers who breeze undetected through the magnetometer may be detained while a security guard scrutinizes the contents of a handbag or briefcase. Harmless items like hair dryers can look menacing when viewed on an X-ray device.
Glen English of Southwest Airlines, who supervises security at Spokane’s airport, says an occasional hold-up at the checkpoint is unavoidable.
Few people would argue that safe airplanes aren’t worth a little extra wait, but there are things you can do to make the trip through security quicker for you and everyone behind you, too:
Take your coat off and empty your pockets before you get to the metal detector.
Leave mace or tear gas in the car. It’s not allowed past security.
Wrap gifts after you reach your destination. Otherwise, you’re likely to have to tear that pretty paper. Those lead crystal candlesticks can look deceptively explosive, and children’s toys - such as water pistols - can demand a closer look.
Check potentially dangerous items such as power tools and steak knives.
Know in advance you’ll have to turn on your cellular phone, computer or pager so security guards can make sure they aren’t decorative cover for something more sinister.
Anyone getting on a plane must pass through the metal detectors, flight crew included, English says. Many airports, including Spokane’s, only let ticketed passengers past security gates during busy times such as holidays and spring break.
Reader question
Q: How big can a carry-on bag be?
A: Depends on the airline. Contrary to what the luggage salesperson may tell you, there’s no standard size for carry-ons. In fact, the six major airlines flying out of Spokane have four different size limits.
Here’s the rundown on maximum bag sizes, in inches: Southwest: 22 x 17 x 11; United and Northwest: 22 x 14 x 9; Delta: 22 x 18 x 8; Horizon and Alaska: 24 x 17 x 10.
But after all that, how many times have you seen a ticket agent or flight attendant get out a ruler?
Travel tips
Speaking of baggage, AAA officials have a few suggestions aimed at reducing travel stress.
Fasten an identification tag with your name, address and telephone number to the outside of every bag. Put one inside, too. Pack essential things such as passports, medications, glasses, keys and cameras in carry-on bags. Keep a list of everything you pack in case your bag gets lost.
Lastly, if an airline employee asks you to check your bag, don’t argue, but remove valuables, breakables and essentials first.
TELL US Your ideas Getting There runs every other Monday. Have a transportation question that’s been nagging you? Let us hear it. Got an idea for a column? Drop us a line. Phone us at (509) 459-5312 or fax us at (509) 459-5482. E-mail kristinaj@spokesman.com or send a note to Kristina Johnson at The Spokesman Review, 999 W. Riverside, P.O. Box 2160, Spokane, WA 99210. Please leave a name and telephone number.