An Answer for Long Airport Lines for the Elite

Futuristic fast-lane security screening will expand to four more U.S. airports in the next six weeks, for those willing to pay the program’s yearly fee of $100.  Under the "Registered Traveler" program, passengers will be cleared through a special fast-lane with a quick scan of their iris or fingerprint. There will still be metal detectors, but passengers will be less likely to be singled out for pat-downs or be required to remove clothing.  In Orlando, where the program kicked off last year, travelers are raving about the sci-fi-like technology that speeds them through the screening process.  THE BLOTTER RECOMMENDS Gel-Filled Bras Now Permitted on Board ‘The List’: Screwdrivers? Yes. Toothpaste? No. Click Here to Check Out Who’s Blowing Hot, Cool and Smoke on the Brian Ross Homepage "In five minutes or less, you’re completely through," said Henry Morgan, a frequent corporate traveler who gives his fingerprint each time he flies. "I cannot wait until this rolls over to other airports." The program is run by private companies in partnership with TSA, which checks applicants against terrorist lists. Critics say the program is a costly waste of TSA resources. "This program doesn’t necessarily bring heightened security, and first-class passengers already get quick service," said David Castlebetter of the Air Transport Association, a commercial airline trade association. The program begins at New York’s JFK airport on Dec. 12. Cincinnati, Indianapolis and San Jose airports are already enrolling members and plan to launch the program in January.