Thu, Jul 13, 2006
Issues Include Cost, Liability
So... what's up with the much
heralded "Registered Traveler" program, which was designed to give
frequent fliers a way to skirt the tedium of airport security?
Well... from the looks of it, nothing much.
Despite plans to incorporate the system at several high-traffic
airports around the country, the St. Petersburg (FL) Times reports
that so far Registered Traveler is only in effect at one -- Orlando
International... and while the gateway to the land of Mickey has
signed up more than 25,000 travelers over the last year for its
privately-run "Clear" service, there is still no 'clear' indication
when other airports will follow suit.
So... what's the hold up? Well, standardizing features and
services of the programs offered by the three separate companies
touting Registered Traveler is a big factor... as is some
passengers' reluctance to pony up the $80 annual fee for the
privilege of standing in a much shorter line to go through
security.
And then there are the logistical issues... as many airports
don't have the room to add a new security station for registered
travelers. There is also some reluctance by airports to invest
additional funds for, essentially, a perk for the select few.
But a primary concern, it seems, is liability: after all, if a
terrorist happens to slip through a "Clear" line... who would be
responsible? The airport? The company running the program?
No one knows yet... and until that question is firmly answered,
registered traveler may be kept standing in line... despite the
TSA's plans to implement the program in as many as 20 airports by
the end of this year.
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