A new program would allow some passengers be screened remotely before being bused to their gate at Logan International Airport.
Massport launched the program on Monday that would give passengers on Delta and JetBlue flights the ability to go through security remotely at a new location near the Logan Express in Framingham, Massachusetts.
When Aline Goularte flies, she goes out of her way to avoid delays.
“You go through all that traffic to get here. By the time you get here, there’s a huge line,” she said. “Just get on the plane and go.”
Patricia Jackson, who was on her way to Florida, said she likes the idea.
“That TSA line can be very scary at times, and nerve-racking if you’re late for a flight or pressed for time,” said Jackson.
The whole concept mirrors what you find at the airport, according to Peter Howe, Massport’s deputy director of roadway management. “Check your bag, screening, a hold room, get right on the bus. You drive 22 miles to the airport and be dropped right off at your gate.”
Testing will go on from June 1 through the end of August at the newly built Logan Airport remote check-in site about half a mile from the Framingham Logan Express station.
Out of the gate, Massport said the service is only for Delta and JetBlue flights, including some of their international flights. TSA said its PreCheck service would be accepted at the remote location.
“Through this offsite screening pilot, TSA is continuing its effort to modernize the screening experience and make travel more convenient for passengers flying through Logan International Airport, while maintaining the strong security protocols,” TSA regional spokesperson Daniel Valez said in a statement.
Some passengers relayed they would be concerned about the integrity of the program with it operating independently from the airport.
“I would have some concern, because who’s physically checking?” Jackson said.
She seemed less skeptical after learning TSA would still be conducting the screening at the remote location.
“Then it sounds like a great idea,” she said.
JetBlue VP of Airport Experience Daniel Blake said TSA would still manage the primary point of entry into the security system.
“If it’s monitored the whole way, and there’s TSA every step of the way, then I guess it could be enough security,” said Blake.
Source: News – Boston – necn
