Airports Since 9/11: A Review

Overall, a pleasant experience

SEPTEMBER 25, 2001 ABOARD NW 1787 (PA TO DETROIT)

Having flown twice since 9/11, many people have asked me about the situation in the airports and aboard planes given the recent events.  Here are some of the common questions and my take on each:

   1. Do you really need to be at the airport 2-3 hours before your flight?

No.  If anything the travel has been much easier and quicker.  Airports are empty, prime parking is open, rental cars are available.  The lines at the counter and at the security are minimal.

   2. Can you carry on your luggage?

Yes.  After I realized it wasn't a problem, I carried on my suitcase and computer bag as usual.  

   3. Have you seen any shady characters on your plane, and did you get nervous?

Yes and yes.

   4.  Did the security people dig through all of your bags?

No.  They did take a longer look than usual at my computer and luggage, but just slightly.  They made me put my cell phone through the X-ray.  A security guy in Philadelphia checked 'my person' pretty thoroughly for metal objects (none found).

  5.  Are they confiscating disposable razors?

I don't think so.  I threw mine out before my flight, but other guys I worked with had no problems.

  6.  Is the security tighter?

It is.  You will be asked to show your ID and boarding pass when you check in and when you go through security.  You can still use the E-check in kiosks.  No one without a ticket or boarding pass will get through security.  Although I did not see anyone on board that looked like an air Marshall, but I saw many of these guys fully armed and walking through the airport.

  7.  Is it easier to get into 1st Class?

Not really.  My theory is that despite a huge decrease in travel, your most experienced business travelers are those who remain.  These are the people who really have to fly and do it a lot.  These salty airport veterans have major status/perks with the airlines.  Since many regular flights have been eliminated due to the decreased demand, the veterans are packing into First class on the remaining flights.  The planes I was on had a full first class but a very, very, sparsely filled coach class.

  8.  What is the mood of the flight crew?

Very upbeat.  The crews have been overly friendly.  On my flight Philadelphia they genuinely thanked every person on the plane for flying.

  9.  If everything is so smooth, why are you bagging your honeymoon trip to Jamaica?

Dreadlock Rastafarian security gives me the willies.