Re: The other kind of search experts: TSA bloggers

John F. Hill — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 15:31:55 -0000

I commend the tsa for initiating this blog thing - but (this is my first ever 'blog') I am still not sure from reading the web-site where I should direct these two criticisms.

Both are serious... at least to me!

I begin by mentioning that as an Australian I have been flying regularly between Minneapolis through San Francisco to Melbourne since 1981.

However, since the advent of TSA - I have had three bad experiences. The first two concerned my luggage. It was nice to read the slip of paper telling me the luggage had been searched - but on two occasions the luggage strap was completely missing. As in taken off, not put back. Money down drain; safety of baggage diminished.. and justifiable resentment to TSA staff. Ever since I have put a large printed notice in my case requesting them to ensure the luggage strap (now the third one I have had to buy) is replaced. So far so good. (But I should mention that when I complained I was given the run around.) I hope this has improved.

My second concern still rankles. In September of 06 I flew from San Francisco to Sydney/Melbourne. I had brought approximately $20USD worth of "Jelly Belly's" as a gift for my children and grandchildren. Ronald Reagan's favourite candy! (And mine) Made in California. Shipped around the world. They were in my carry-on bag - since I would have to declare them when arriving in Sydney. Instead the TSA Officer said that because they were "jelly" they would be confiscated.

How stupid is this?

I only wish I had taken this officer's name and asked to speak to his superior of the manager of the day.

Just to underline the idiocy of this action - I found I could buy the same items in the shops in the concourse past the barriers. I did not.

I hope the TSA has trained its officers to recognise serious conerns - rather than implement in pedantic and silly ways what may be in some circumstances, reasonable rules. If they/You have not - then its time you did! Or should I send a copy of this to the Governor of California? The Jelly Belly Company? The Ronald Reagan Library? Who?!

But I suppose - given all the times I have been through airport security - to only have three complaints may seem fine - and I want to commend the work of TSA members in general.

Regards

John Hill

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Re: The other kind of search experts: TSA bloggers