The next time you’re stuck in a long security line, consider this: At most U.S. airports it’s possible to buy your way out of the wait.
All major domestic airlines and some smaller carriers offer programs that allow people to skirt lines leading to the taxpayer-funded Transportation Security Administration checkpoints even if they don’t qualify for the government’s expedited security program.
For a price.
While that arrangement seems fine to people within the airline and travel industry -- and is lauded by people who use it -- critics say that it unfairly allows businesses to profit by taking advantage of a critical government function.
“Buying your way to the front of the line -- that has nothing to do with the level of security,” former U.S. Senator Ben Nelson, a Nebraska Democrat who filed legislation in 2012 to prohibit the practice, said in an interview. “Why should you have other folks stand in longer lines for a federal government program, the TSA?”
Missed Flights
The arrangement is made possible because the TSA doesn’t control the airport real estate leading to its metal detectors and x-ray machines. That means airports and airlines have control of the lines and can queue up passengers any way they want. At scores of airports there are separate lines for privileged passengers.
After thousands of passengers missed flights this spring due to long lines and officials forecast that this summer could be even worse -- a symptom of increasing passengers and the declining number of TSA screeners -- the practice of allowing some people to sidestep the lines is receiving new attention. Elite travelers are increasingly seeking ways around the lines, while some critics are crying foul.
All four major airlines and most smaller carriers offer their top customers -- those flying first class or the highest-tier frequent fliers -- access to the head of the line to be screened. The privilege can also be purchased by anyone at some carriers. American Airlines’ Five Star Service starts at $250 a flight and includes a personal escort and other benefits. Another company, CLEAR, offers shorter lines to members who pay a yearly fee.
Unfair Advantage