Fear of flying?

September 12, 2001 8:04 PM

Fear of flying? New security measures are being discussed. Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta says, "These terrorist acts are designed to steal the confidence of Americans. We will restore that confidence."
posted by prozaction (9 comments total)

If I had to board a plane tomorrow, I would be comfortable enough to do it.

As for the future, however, I might not be. FAA certainly needs reform. A good point was made on CNN that airport security is a law enforcement entity, and should thus be under the jurisdiction of a law enforcement agency. It's under FAA jurisdiction, however.

The idea was suggested that air marshalls be aboard random flights. I like this idea a lot. And, it makes sense. I don't think this is a violation of our privacy anymore than policemen in Penn Station or Port Authority are violating our privacy. In fact, I'd be comfortable if one per flight were
the norm, and more than two the norm per cross country/international flight. I'd be more than comfortable if, randomly, more than three were aboard any flight no matter the distance.

Am I willing to pay more for all this? Yes.
posted by prozaction at 8:26 PM on September 12, 2001

I hate air travel. My husband (who travels *a lot*) was trying to get me over my fear of flying. ..but this has set me back big-time. I had several trips scheduled over the coming months and I guess this story should make me feel better. I realize that statistics are in my favor, but nevertheless, chalk me up as shaken.
posted by webchick at 8:27 PM on September 12, 2001

I live in Minneapolis and every few hours or so a jet (or 2?) flies over the city. I'm curious to hear from others in large U.S. cities - are our cities currently under patrol by U.S. military jets? They sound like they are WAY overhead I have to yet to see one.

Incidentally, on a trip to Mexico last winter I accidentally forget to check a 6 inch Swiss Army lock blade. I showed it to an airline rep and offered to leave it in Minneapolis until my return. Instead, she personally walked me over to the security check and showed it to the guards, who waived me through. Somehow, I suspect that will never happen again in any U.S. airport.
posted by seymour at 9:04 PM on September 12, 2001

I'm supposed to be on my first-ever flight Friday afternoon. Will it take off as scheduled? Don't know. If it happens the flight isn't cancelled, I believe I'll feel much safer flying amidst all the heightened security than under normal circumstances.

Regardless, I'm sure I'll be taking all of the images of the past two days up there with me...
posted by spinning jennie at 9:06 PM on September 12, 2001

Terrorists are going to do their act whether you have armed guards or not. I feel nervous enough as it is walking through a terminal and hoping I don't set it off with something. In some airports they make the process less nerve racking (not making it feel like you are holding up a whole line). If someone really wanted to sneak a switch blade on a plane they could easily do it in the heel of a shoe.... a laptop case... or any number of objects where something sharp can be concealed (or made out of for that matter). Right now, however, the precautions are reasonable.
posted by geoff. at 9:27 PM on September 12, 2001

geoff, i agree in part, but i also disagree fiercely. as for baggage security and metal/explosive detectors, yes, they are as hi-tech as it gets, and low-tech trojan horse attacks cannot be protected for.

however, putting air marshalls on all flights is a measure that can, i feel, enormously increase security. and i hope to god that the aclu doesn't get weird about it (if it, in fact, comes to fruition).
posted by prozaction at 9:58 PM on September 12, 2001

I live six hours away from the Mexican border and have gone by car and by airplane. I must say that it was easier to get by security at the airport than at the actual border. Though I am Mexican, I speak english fluently, I always get stopped by INS and detained 15-20 minutes. At the airport they just rush me through the metal detector and send me on my way.
posted by beto2g at 10:01 PM on September 12, 2001

I keep hoping to have the opportunity to get on a plane to get home and see my wife. I am really not looking forward to flying, but I really would like to be home with her. I have not been afraid to fly, but I am really not looking forward to this at all. I am fortunate to be staying with wonderful friends and have the ability to keep myself occupied for the next few days if need be.

I am beginning to think about a drive across country.
posted by vanderwal at 10:31 PM on September 12, 2001

Having seen the people who screen luggage (who in my opinion, got the job because they couldn't operate the shake machine at Arby's) I'm in no way comforted.
posted by darren at 7:54 AM on September 13, 2001