Author: Emery Desper
In the era of color coded warnings that show up on the news ever so often to alert us of the potential danger in regards to terrorism, airport security is no exception. Every time we turn around there seems to be a new series of safety precautions, rules and regulations. First, we’re no longer allowed to welcome and bid farewell to loved ones, friends and family at their gates. In conjunction, we’re required to present I.D. anytime we encounter airport personel. Lastly, we must now restrict our toiletry carry-ons and are forced to seal the little we can bring in Ziploc bags.
Because of such extensive security measures, the travel process has become somewhat grueling in large cities and especially at international airports such as LAX. It is very wise to show up at least two hours prior because you will have to spend half of your time at the security check point. However, I was surprised to find out that only some of us get to be so lucky. Apparently if you have the financial privilege or will and diligently saved up those frequent flyer miles thereby managing a first class ticket, you are an exception to the rules. In addition to their heated toilets, free food, big leather seats and free drinks, first class passengers now get to whisk by all those in the security line to a much shorter line, essentially cutting all coach passengers.
During my spring break travels I waited in two very crowded airports. The security check point was jam-packed, and there was clearly a need to open up another lane to move passengers through. Instead of opening up a third lane, they opted to have a first class passenger line. This of course did not relieve the problem because only about ten or so passengers shifted to another line. Although the logic behind limiting traffic in the airports is somewhat reasonable, it is definitely not practical. Allowing roughly ten to twenty passengers through lines that have close to 100 people does not make much of a difference except to those who benefit. It is not like the express check out line in the supermarket where the less items you have the faster you can move through the line. Everyone is limited to the same amount of bags and or carry-ons.
It’s not enough to have swanky airport lounges and all the amenities that accompany flying first class, airlines and airport officials believe that waiting in long lines is not suitable for high paying customers. Some may argue that the power to purchase should afford such privileges-they worked hard and so they should be able to enjoy their privilege. However, since 9/11 we all have had to adjust our lives in an effort to make the country safer and when it comes to security there should be no such privileges. Everyone should have to wait their turn at the security check point and go through as equals.
While it does not surprise me that even airports are elitist and consumer driven, it is disappointing that they believe there is a need to shelter first class passengers from waiting at the security check point with common folk. Security measures were established to protect all of our citizens equally, and as a result we should be grateful that these rules exist and have no problem waiting in line an extra 20 minutes if it means we will all be that much safer.
Emery Desper is an Undeclared sophomore and Opinions Co-Editor for the Weekly. She can be reached at edesper@oxy.edu
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