Public anger over TSA procedures argues for Trusted Traveler plan
The furor over new airport security procedures could be quelled immediately simply by announcing a new "Trusted Traveler" program.
Most frequent flyers (the largest and most vocal group affected by the new rules) would be happy to submit to, and pay for, extensive background checks, which if they passed would then allow for biometric scanning at airports.
Many of us already went through this process with Clear in the hope that it would lead to such a program, but the Transportation Security Administration turned a deaf ear to the proposals.
The amount of time saved by both the frequent traveler and the TSA would free inspectors to more thoroughly screen infrequent system users, resulting in a more efficient use of their time, as well.
This seems like such an obvious solution that I fail to understand why it isn't even being seriously discussed -- no, in stronger terms, why it isn't being demanded by those of us who have to rely on the inefficient, invasive and offensive processes we are currently subjected to, just to do our jobs.
Ed Hall, president and CEO
VisitRochester
Rochester, N.Y.
Richard Turen's recommendations about consortia were on the mark
Richard Turen's column couldn't have been more apropos [Reality Check: "Consorting with known winners," Oct. 18]. I just returned from the best-ever Ensemble Travel Group conference, held at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando.
This conference delivered the goods. From early morning until late in the evening we had a mix of educational seminars, breakout sessions, roundtable supplier exchanges and more. It was evident that there had been many hours of planning.
The hotel staff knocked themselves out, exceeding our expectations with organization and excellent customer service.
The last two evenings were special (a Disney private party with fireworks) and exclusive (a private party at Universal CityWalk followed by private admission to Harry Potter for two hours). It was amazing.
Ensemble Travel Group is as magical as it gets. I was in another consortium in years past, but getting the right consortium makes a huge difference. I'm very grateful to be a member.
Lizbeth Coughlin
Four Seasons Travel
Wilmington, N.C.
Article failed to point out Amex's customer service
A recent front-page article by Nadine Godwin ["DOJ deal with Visa, MC allows merchant bias on cards," Oct. 11] blamed American Express for stalling new credit card rules designed to benefit travel sellers and consumers. However, it must also be noted that Amex delivers customer service far superior to other credit card companies.
Since becoming an Amex member in 1976, I have never had to speak to a person who was not knowledgeable.
A vase from a small store in Italy was going to be delivered to my home at almost double the negotiated price. Amex took care of the issue. On a recent trip in Belgium, another driver backed into my rental car. Europcar was totally uncooperative. An Amex customer service rep took over, and the charges to my credit card were taken care of immediately.
My Amex card will continue to be used before any other card as long as the company keeps giving such outstanding service.
Ewout Rijk de Vries
America Travel Arrangements Inc.
Marco Island, Fla.
***It is Travel Weekly policy that before letters containing customer-service complaints are posted, all parties are given an opportunity to reply. A letter has been taken down that was inadvertently posted before a response was solicited.***
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