What if we just MAKE everybody join?

Registered Traveler - Significant Impact?


As airports tackle changing security requirements, including what is and is not allowed in carryon luggage, some question if programs such as a "registered traveler" program will have a positive impact on screening operations. Gloria Bender of TransSolutions and Paul Bloch of Transport & Logistics Consultancy Ltd. agree that there may be an opportunity, but doubt the overall impact.

Says Bender, "I believe that a registered traveler program does present some opportunity to address this appropriately. However, [with the program TSA introduced] I didn't really see that there was a reduction in the amount of screening requirements that would either produce a faster throughput rate or a reduced amount of inspection for passengers. I'd say it has promise, but in order for it to come to fruition, there would need to be some increase in throughput rate that would result from it."

Adds Bloch, "Registered traveler programs will certainly reduce the amount of processing time for those passengers enrolled, but that doesn't mean magically the airport's going to get easier for everyone else.

"I'm yet to be convinced that these programs are actually the solution to all evils." Bloch says registered traveler-type programs might be effective where airlines MAKE ALL passengers check in online or at immigration with integrated biometrics security.

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