Mile High Club More Difficult to Join
So I flew back east this past week. It was the first time I have flown in over a year. Not that flying is "fun" per say but it seems to me that every year it is less enjoyable, and more of a chore. Family and friends are no longer able to greet us at the gates. Carry-on baggage is limited more and more each year. Shoes must be removed at the security checkpoint. And now liquid containers must be under 3 oz. (90 ml), else placed in baggage that is checked in.
I was not aware of this latest rule (and later felt a bit foolish for not knowing). There was nothing about it in my confirmation email or printed boarding pass. And no loudspeaker announcements at Phoenix Sky Harbor (T. F. Green in Rhode Island was broadcasting the 3 oz. limit). Clueless, I wove through line in front of security, subconsciously noting off to one side a bin of courtesy Ziploc bags. I did think that was a bit curious. It was was my first and only warning.
But the free baggies were too late for anyone like me who was not aware of the new Transportation Security Administration regulations. I naively placed my one carry-on bag onto the X-Ray machine's conveyor belt and was subsequently flagged for a thorough search. Not only did the TSA official confiscate all of my toiletries -- Oooh dernit, not the Bumble and Bumble! -- I also forfeited my bottled water and 2 Myoplex shakes.±
On board during the pre-flight safety presentation the attendant made it extremely clear that only one person at a time would be allowed to approach the forward lavatory. Furthermore, no one, including parents with children, would be permitted to wait outside. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that she spent a full five minutes explaining this (and explaining, and explaining). Then throughout the flight she was on constant vigil, sending anyone who might be waiting to go to the restroom back to their seat.
Now don't get me wrong. I am totally down with having a safe flight. I appreciate the work done by our airport personnel. I am happy to take off my shoes and I am over not being able to meet people at the gate. I will bring smaller containers. I will not mill around the forward potty. Oh that last one will be unfortunate for some. Joining the Mile High Club just got trickier.
± Interestingly, a third shake and a full 6 oz. tube of toothpaste survived the search undetected. It appears there was safety in numbers. Doh!