I frequently make use of the family lanes offered at my local supermarket so when I heard the Transportation Security Administration was experimenting with screening lanes designed specifically for families with children I was anxious to learn more.
Heck, as far as I am concerned any parent who has struggled with juggling multiple tots and totes while navigating airport security areas should be interested in the new program.
According to TSA security officials, the idea for the family lanes is to ease the pressure on parents journeying through an airport with young children. In airports around the world parents with young children are often referred to as “infrequent travelers.” They are the ones who typically go on one or two trips a year and are therefore unfamiliar with airport security procedures. They are also the ones who tend to travel with numerous carry-ons and if they are like me they have a tot who practically has to be bribed by airport security officials to remove her shoes and then proceeds to spend 10 minutes sharing details of her trip with TSA workers. We are the passengers business travelers dread being stuck behind in airport security lines.
This is why I fully support the new family lanes, which are currently being tested at the Denver and Salt Lake City airports alongside “expert” lanes for travelers who know every nuance of security screening and lanes for “casual” travelers.
According to security officials, the screening is the same in each lane, and the program is voluntary. The main goal behind the separate lines is to help speed up the screening process, and according to TSA workers in Denver, it seems to be working. Business travelers say they are happy to avoid being caught behind a clan with gaggle of young children and a mountain of carry-ons and parents say they are thrilled not to be the target of nasty looks from impatient solo passengers.
Transportation security officials say the segregated lanes could open around the country if the tests show the concept speeds up security lines.
Personally, I can’t wait for the idea to be instituted in airports nationwide. How about you?
Traveling with children in the near future? Check out these blogs for helpful tips on making your next flight a smooth one:
Traveling With Children-Learn From My Mistakes
Flying with Children: Layover or Not?
Tips To Remember When Traveling With Children
Even More Tips To Remember When You Travel With Kids
More Tips To Remember When You Travel With Kids
Traveling With Young Children: More Dos and Don’ts
Traveling With Young Children: Dos and Don’ts
In Flight Diaper Changing Etiquette
Are Airlines Becoming More Family Friendly?