When I was watching news footage of the crowded airport terminals in the wake of last week’s terrorism freak-out, I cringed at the thought of getting through airport security in this even braver, newer world where a bottle of hair gel is a potential explosive. I can only imagine the kind of scrutiny that the water bag for my humidifier would attract.
These new restrictions are incredibly silly, don’t you think? Every new measure is a response to yesterday’s threat. After 9/11. nail clippers and scissors were verboten. After Richard Reed, we had to take off our shoes. Now, a juice box is this year’s box cutter. As Bruce Schneier notes, we spend billions of dollars creating the illusion of security for the nation’s air travelers. The grim reality is that by the time a reasonably competent team of terrorists arrives at the airport, it’s probably too late to stop them.
When it comes to stopping acts of terrorism, we all want the government to Do Something. We want to watch someone go through the motions of looking under the bed for monsters. But it’s going to take more than empty gestures to keep us safe.
I called up the airline, because I’m flying…
the respirator won’t be a problem, as long as there are no liquid bags attached. I don’t have any.(yet)
the suction machine has to be empty. No secretions, no alcohol or peroxide either. No liquids. Otherwise, they will probably swab it.
if you have any machines with any kind of attachment that requires some sort of liquid , you WILL be scrutinized.
even people requiring oxygen.
Make sure when flying always call up the airline and let them know exactly what medical condition you have, what medical machines your bringing, any special needs you might have. if you need a wheelchair to get you from the terminal to the plane, if you have trouble walking.
some airlines require a note from your doctor if your going to fly and you have a medical condition, especially if using a respirator. not all, just some.