Flying

[ronstew]

After the last time I got hassled by airport security, I came up with a policy. Next time I get unduly hassled, I am going to note the name of the security agent and write to the airline and airport, naming names and giving a full description of the event while I am in the waiting room or in flight. Maybe I'll get the bastige reprimanded, and maybe it will make somebody else's trip better.

However, I always fly in sweatpants and sweatshirt. My running shoes have no metal. I do everything I can to make the security as fast and painless as possible.

I love flying. I hate commercial air travel.

[macwilkin]

Folks,

This thread is riding the line -- please keep the discussion germane to kilts. We've already removed one thread about airport security in the last couple of weeks.

Thanks,

Todd

[davedove]

I do everything I can to make the security as fast and painless as possible.

That's my philosophy as well. Anything metal I put into my carry-on bag BEFORE going through security. That way, I don't even have to take the time to empty any pockets. So far, I haven't had any real problems (other than long lines at times. )

I did have an incident on my trip last month. After my backpack went through the x-ray, the TSA agent told me he had to look at my bag, because they something that looked sharp. Looking through the pockets of the bag and emptying the contents he didn't see anything, so everything was passed through the machine again. This time it was narrowed down to my zippered notebook.

At this point, I finally figured out what it was. Since it was the same notebook I carry back and forth to the office, I keep a small knife in it for cutting fruit, cheese, etc. and I had completely forgotten it was in there. I told the agent where it was in the notebook pouch and he pulled it out. It was just a cheap knife, so I didn't mind it being confiscated.

At least they were doing their job. Plus, I still had over an hour before the flight left, so I wasn't pressed for time.

I can't say that there aren't a few jerks out there, but most of these people are just trying to do their job under tough circumstances. I think a lot of people just need to accept that there are going to be frustrating moments when travelling these days. Do everything you can to clean yourself of all metal before even getting to the security gate and leave yourself plenty of time to allow for long lines. I don't think air travel will be a pleasant experience for some time to come.

[michael steinrok]

I wear the kilt on airlines just to give them something to do! I love the look when they have to do a pat down (always) BTW the screeners do have a special protocol for kilted brethren. Usually the screeners and security see me and the cameras come out and the posing with the giant kilted guy begins.Smile and enjoy the attention!

[Ruanaidh]

The last time I flew (kilted of course) the buckles set off the alarm. The guy doing the screening said he would have to pat me down. Says I: "I hope your hands are warm". The pat down was quick and perfunctory.

[O'Neille]

This is one reason I have made 3 kilts with no metal content at all. All three are suitable for comfort, style and travel. I really like having all of my stuff in a sporran too. Take it off and run it throught the x-ray no hassle. I think I'll travel in my USAK casual next time, another fine no metal kilt. I would like it to have a velcro passport pocket just to have somewhere secure to stash something. Rocky if you're listening. The USAK Casual Traveler. Stash pocket in waistband and a passport pocket on inside apron. O'Neille