Columnist Muriel Stevens: A search for airport efficiency

Wednesday, March 12, 2003 | 8:21 a.m.

For the first time since the feds took over security at airports, my luggage was searched. Of course, I didn't know it had been searched until I unpacked my bag at home after a weekend in La Jolla, Calif.

This is not a complaint. I like the professionalism of the Transportation Security Administration people. The ones I've encountered have been courteous and informative. I've learned to pay attention to the information posted all over airports giving advice on how to speed up the time it takes to go through security lines.

Before the Feds took over, I followed all the rules and was treated badly by a rent-a-security person who had no idea of how to perform his duties.

Then came these professionals who told us what to do and what not to do and told us why. They advised not to lock any bags we would check through, but to secure them in a way that gave access to the bags.

My choice was to use the ties that come with trash bags. They're strong and can easily be removed.

If you lock a bag the Transportation Security Administration screener decides to open, the screener "regretfully" will be forced to break the locks on your bags. There is a warning: "However, TSA is not liable for damage to your locks resulting from this necessary security precaution."

Knowing all this I rarely take more than one check-through bag. I pack fewer things than I used to, and make a list of what I'm taking just in case something goes astray. Since my last trip some new checks have been added.

When you reach the security counter, remove leather shoes or high heels and place in one of the bins. The metal shanks and heels set off the alarm. Fail to do this and you'll be pulled out of line for a search. Wear nonleather sandals, as I did, to avoid having to remove your footwear.

Men and women must now remove their jackets. They also go into a bin. And computers must be removed from their cases for inspection.

Until Friday's morning departure I'd not had any problems with delays at security (except for the one time with the rent-a-cop). Checking in at the curb at America West has also been a cinch, but Friday was a zoo with an endless line waiting. ShoWest had just ended and the mobs were going home.

It's just a coincidence that I've had the same America West check-in person, Kevin Cuthvertson, a number of times. He gave me a friendly wave and a smile and indicated the line would move quickly and it did.

Remember, you'll need to show a photo ID to check in and to board the plane as well as the boarding pass. Inside, at the America West counter, was more madness. Many, many more travelers than outside were waiting in serpentine lines, a la Disneyland.

A few savvy travelers were using the America West do-it-yourself booths to check in. Do this only if you understand the process. Of course, it's not as friendly as Kevin, but it appears to be a neat shortcut if you're not checking bags.

By now the two-hour lead time, the amount of time suggested by the airlines when I called, had dwindled to less than an hour; not enough time for breakfast, but a surprise awaited on the plane.

America West is serving healthy Balance protein bars instead of the usual nuts. Thanks, America West, it was a tasty munch.