I was extremely apprehensive to travel the day after the thwarted terrorist attempt. I thought that the new security rules and stricter enforcements were sure to add much aggravation as I traveled from my home in Raleigh, NC to the Southwest PC User Group Conference in San Diego, CA. I arrived at the airport two hours early only to find that everything was orderly and effective. There were even signs and announcements at curbside telling you to transfer any liquids from your carry-on to your checked bag.

I checked my bags and headed over to security. Like most of the other travelers I had remove all liquids, creams, and gels. To make things easier I did not even carry a tube of lipstick and I pared down the number of electronic devices that I normally carry. I zoomed though in less than ten minutes. Not only did they have extra help in the screening area, but everyone was upbeat and helpful. My laptop, cell phone, and iPod posed no problem.

At some gates, security agents and National Guard troops were conducting further searches, inspecting the carry-on bags of every passenger, but my flight was not one of the chosen few for that inspection. Although my flight was two hours late, my worries about security hasted proved unfounded at least on this domestic flight. In fact, I was thoroughly amazed by the effeciency exhibited by the TSA. My experience was actually pleasurable. If you are traveling in the near future, there is hope that yours will be too….More on my experiences at the User Group Conference and my trip home to come….