Posted by Rick Denney on June 13, 2002 at 09:26:28:
In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: flying posted by $20 on June 11, 2002 at 14:16:03:
It can cost you twenty bucks. That's hurt, in my book.
In my recent experience, the big airports you mentioned are most likely to allow what you suggest. The toughest security I've seen is at smaller airports. I am rarely searched at Dulles, O'Hare, or Atlanta, but have been searched more often than not at Birmingham, Chattanooga, and Memphis. And the security people are more alert and aggressive at those smaller airports, too. Plus, few of those smaller airports even have curbside check-in.
I used to recommend the bluff method, but since 9/11 I think it is just too risky. There is a good chance you'll be explaining your ignorance to the security folks while you plane is taking off without you.
Let's face it: traveling by air with a tuba sucks.
Rick "who was searched in Memphis just yesterday" Denney