We know that there are enough recent changes to transportation policies that just about anyone feels a little befuddled about what's considered right and wrong. Our reader mail and Message Board posts make that clear enough. As a friend pointed out as we were going through screening at Logan Airport two weeks ago, "I know I haven't done anything wrong, but I'm afraid they'll discover something wrong that I don't even know about yet--and then I'll be in trouble." It's enough to make anyone edgy. Fortunately, there is a number you can call that will put you in touch with people who can answer all your questions and ease your fears.
You can now call a consumer response center at 866/289-9673 to speak to customer service representatives of the newly formed Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The hotline has been set up to respond to the routine complaints, comments and questions that arise in light of the new security procedures. This is the number to call if you are unsure what you can or cannot bring on board, have a complaint about an inappropriate screening (aggressive frisking, lost/stolen/damaged property, etc.) or just need additional information. The hotline is manned Mondays through Fridays 8 am to 5 pm Eastern Standard Time. If you call before or after hours, you can leave a message, and someone will get back to you.
The TSA, operating under the auspices of the Department of Transportation, has been charged with the onerous task of federalizing airport security screening procedures; establishing official policy for checking passengers and baggage, hiring and training over 50,000 new federal employees, reinforcing cockpit doors and more. Baltimore/ Washington International Airport is the first fully federalized facility; airports in Mobile, Alabama and Louisville, Kentucky are next on the list. The target deadline for the federalization process for all airports is December 2002. To review TSA policies, to see when your local airport is scheduled to make the transition or for other information, you can visit www.tsa.dot.gov/.
Please note, this is not the number to call to complain about a particular airline; it is specifically for those questions and comments regarding federal screening procedures and TSA employees. If you have a complaint about a particular airline, you should contact the carrier directly.