It's going to depend on what the local conditions are- for example, I expect Israeli security is worse then this for a very good reason. But, yes, for the US this is a bit much and I can't see where it would have stopped any of the terrorist attempts there have been if it had been in place earlier.

George Carlin complained about this years and years ago. I can't recall the show, but he went on a rant about how airline security was a waste of time, an illusion designed to make people feel safe. It was before the 9/11 attacks, sure, but he pointed out the stupidity of giving knives to passengers once they are on the plane. It's pretty funny stuff.

"They know he's not a security risk [referring to a guy who could kill with his big hands]  because he's answered the 3 big questions!"

Why the hell is Wil Wheaton being checked? I once saw a 70-year-old white lady being frisked at Boston airport. It's nonsensical. Fuck racial profiling. Check anyone in the age group of 14-60 who looks even vaguely middle eastern. Or... you can just stop fucking middle easterners?

Edited to add:

And fucking hell. The rules regarding liquids is retarded. Now I can't take my standard sized shampoo, deodarant bottles etc. with me because they suspect I'm carrying deadly substances. Where there's a will there's a way. It's not like Cobra are going to be deterred from world domination because a guy at an airport feels up their crotch or takes away their hair conditioner.

Last edited by redxavier (2011-04-07 10:04:28)

Pretty sure it's off of "What am I doing in New Jersey?"

No shit brother.  Flying out to L.A. I flew Virgin America.  Great airline, had a great flight, and I'd fly them again in the future.  My one niggle is that unless you're flying business or first class, it's $25 to check a piece of luggage.  I've always checked my luggage, so I've never given much thought to the whole liquids thing.  Also on this trip I was planning on having a heavier bag coming home than going out, so I just packed my wash bag with everything, knowing I was going to check it anyway.

Getting on the plane there were several people who had their little carry on suitcases with them, the kind you can stow in the overhead bin.  I was only going to be away for about 10 days, and I'd only packed for 5.  I could have easily packed in a smaller carry-on, rather than my duffle, and saved myself $50 and at least an hour at the baggage claims.  I'm pretty sure I could have found shampoo when I landed.