A Lesson In Airport Security

I'd like to share with you my recent experience at an airport security checkpoint.  A few months ago, I signed up for "Fly Clear", a registered traveler program.   As a subscriber, I gave certain biometrics information voluntarily along with a formal application that included personal identifying information to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA).  In exchange for providing this personal data, the TSA performed a security threat assessment and approved my continued use of the expedited screening services provided by "Fly Clear".

When I arrived at the Orlando International Airport, I proceeded to check in my luggage and receiving my boarding card.   I headed towards the TSA security checkpoint where I found the regular security screening line had a wait time of approximately 40 minutes due to the high volume of passengers.   Fortunately for me the "Fly Clear" lane at the security checkpoint was open with only 1 passenger ahead of me.  I proceeded to present my smart card (with my biometrics and ID encoded) to the security staff and was verified as a registered traveler in under 1 minute.  I was allowed to go through security screening including x-rays of my carry-on items and walking through the metal detectors--all in under 3 minutes.

To become a registered traveler, I gave up some very personal and confidential information to the TSA--however, the convenience I experienced with the "Fly Clear" program was worth the investment.  Perhaps in the future I won't be so eager to trade some personal and confidential information.  That day, and for me, the convenience of saving 37 minutes standing in line were worth the trade off.

I spent the next 37 minutes, enjoying a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino® Blended Crème at Starbucks.