Good post and email CFII.

I agree with that completely, as I imagine anyone with any common sense does as well.

Also a quick question on crewpass, does this allow us to bypass security completely?? Go through without even passing through a metal detector? Or does it just allow us to get around for example pulling our laptops out or something? Thanks. I believe it is the former, as anything else would be almost pointless.

ALPA has been careful to remind all of us that this program is an alternate form of security screening and that in no way does this allow a pilot to "bypass" security.

Once you check in to CrewPass, you are verified and simply go on your way without screening you bags, performing the pat down, etc. However, TSA reserves the right to do the through search of you, your bags, and a pat down on a "random" basis. If you do not appear in CrewPass as an active pilot, you have to go through the entire process with the people.

So, you may or may not have to go through the regular line...but most pilots will show up and be out of the area in less than 15 seconds.

Went through it in PIT this morning. Had the choice of CrewPass or regular security line since the FA's couldn't use it. Just need to show an alternate form of ID. No line, no hassles. Splits up the crew though until the FA's traverse the regular security line.

CFII, Great points, but one thing: does policy at your company require you to entertain these people? The other day, I sat down in the boarding area while waiting for my seat assignment, get out the newspaper that I had been planning to read, and Chuckles two seats over asks :

"Are you the pilot of this flight?"

No.

"Who do you fly for? Who do you fly for? WHO DO YOU FLY FOR?"

Don't let wearing your uniform cause you any fatigue. Not worth it.

__________________________________________________ ___________

>>b) Fatigue: Deadheading in Uniform and commuting.... how many times have we been asked questions, or involved in lengthy conversations because of the uniform we wear duing deadhead/commute travel?<<

Thats why I learned to do the superman quick change it the restroom.

Most of us have. The point is we shouldn't have to.

If you don't see walking through security in 15 seconds without lifting or unpacking your bags a benefit I would love to know what you consider a negative. The employee lines in many airports often have long lines with other employees. I have never seen a long line of pilots.

Don't get me wrong. I just am too old and cynical to think this will go off without a hitch. I was stopped by the TSA one time when I tried to go through the regular pax line instead of the crew line. There were 10 or so crew waiting for the xray machine so I just walked over to the empty machines to proceed. "Oh no, you can't go that way," I was told. "You should know better." Gawd!

I have been looking forward to this crew pass system for sooooo long I just have a hard time believing it. I look forward to it. As an aside, I wonder how many FFDOs will give up the weapon when they can get through security easier because of this system?

Went through BWI this morning. Not a huge time saver, but sooo much better to not be screened. The FA *****ed at us the whole time- too bad for you honey, tell your useless union to get your [large posteriors] on CASS. It almost felt like common sense briefly ruled my morning for a few minutes. Thank you ALPA, it takes the sting off those dues deductions. BTW, I agree completely about the uniforms.

What do you agree with about uniforms? Do you think that they should or shouldn't be required?