Scott Ahlsmith, CTC's - Roads Less Traveled

Cleared for Fast Track Security

During February, 2007, four U.S. airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, will debut the Clear Registered Traveler program.  This program lets frequent travelers zip through TSA security check points.

It uses biometrics, technology that measures human physical characteristics for identification purposes.

While travelers registered with Clear can get through security faster they still have carry  their gels, pastes, and liquids in clear one-quart zip-lock bags.

Five Tips for Happy Holidays Air Travel

Air travel over the Holidays is a unique experience, but it can be enjoyable if you plan ahead.  Here are five tips to make your Holiday travel more enjoyable:

1-Pack Light -- With liquids, gels, and pastes being restricted to only as many 3-ounce bottles as can fit in a 1 quart zip-lock bag, the airline baggage systems are bursting at the seams.  Even though you are permitted to check two bags per person, one and a small carry-on is better.

Shoes Go Through TSA X-Ray Machines -- Not Babies

We've seen large quantities of gels, liquids, and pastes confiscated at TSA checkpoints in airports around the country.  We've even seen people try to take live shotgun shells and box cutters through these checkpoints.  But, an incident at LAX (Los Angeles International) really got our attention.  Fortunately, it ended without injury or serious side effects.  And, if it wasn't reported on KTLA-TV and written about in the LA Times, we would have thought it was just an urban legend.  Although it would be difficult to make-up a story this good.

Fear of Baggage Handlers

I travel frequently and the only thing I fear more than terrorists are airline baggage handlers.  I have a phobia when it comes to checking luggage. 

Because I fly at least three times every month, my packing and planning skills are finally honed.  I've been known to travel internationally for two weeks out of one carry-on bag.

Threat to India's Tourism

I don't enjoy publishing travel warnings, but this is an important part of my responsibility as a travel professional.  I want your travels to always be rewarding experiences while you remain safe and informed.

With this as a backdrop, I want to tell you about an outbreak of chikungunya and dengue in several popular tourist destinations in India.  These tropical viruses have so far resulted in over 110 deaths and about 3,300 hospitalizations.  The viruses are carried by the Tiger Mosquito.

Airport Security Update

Kudos to the TSA and the traveling public.  I've passed through Chicago O'Hare's and Boston Logan's TSA checkpoints during the past few days with no delay or inconvenience.  That is nothing short of amazing given last week's events in the UK, the resulting increase security level to orange, and all the new airport security restrictions.

Sure, I had to think about what to pack in my carry-on.  I even thought (briefly) about checking a bag, but quickly regained my senses.  Terrorists concern me, but airport baggage handlers scare me.  To manage my fear of baggage handlers, I've learned to live for weeks out of my Briggs & Riley, 21" Expandable, Upright, Carry-on.  In addition to giving me ample space for my stuff, it comes with a life-time guarantee.  Given my travel schedule, Briggs & Riley has lost money on that committment.