TSA Self-Selecting Security Lanes
Choose the Right One
For Less Stress and Faster Security

If you're a frequent flyer, you don't need us to tell you about them. You've probably already used one of those "Black Diamond Lanes" designed to get you through the TSA check point faster.

According to the TSA, those lanes are working.

If you're wondering what we're talking about with those TSA Self-Selecting Security Lanes, you're not a black diamond traveler.... and if you see color coded signs at the airport TSA checkpoints, you should choose the blue square or the green circle. WHAT???

Instead of having just one security line for everyone, there may be two or three security lanes. They are color coded, and the TSA has chosen to model them after signs on ski runs that tell skiers where the hill is for difficult and for experts, moderate or easy. You are supposed to choose the lane depending on how savvy you are about travel.... that's why they've called them the TSA Self-Selecting Security Lanes.... but then that was pretty obvious, wasn't it?

The Black Diamond Lane is for "Expert Travelers". This is where frequent flyers go. People who know the routine and can get through the checkpoint quickly. They are familiar with the rules and procedures, have their plastic bag of liquids packed correctly and out of their carry-on and they are prepared and ready to go through.

The Blue Square Lane is for "Casual Travelers". This would apply to travelers who are familiar with the rules and regulations, but they may take a bit longer to sort out the plastic bag, the computer, the shoes... and they just don't want to feel rushed at the checkpoint.

The Green Circle Lane is for "Families and Passengers with Medical LIquids". If you're really not sure what you need to do as you go through security, this lane is for you. It's for families with small children, strollers and liquids for children. Passengers with special need should use this lane if they need special assistance or extra time.

You are allowed to take more than 3 ounces of "medically necessary liquids" outside of the one quart plastic bag, but these must be declared to a TSA Officer. If this applies to you, you should use the Green Circle Security Lane where possible.

Though it's up to individuals to choose the appropriate security lane, the TSA says the honor system seems to be working. According to them, the black-diamond lanes are 21% faster on average. So far 50 airports have the new lanes in place.

These TSA self-selecting security lanes seems to be lowering the stress and anxiety levels of all passengers. Expert travelers don't feel that they are being slowed down, and families are able to take their time with all the things they have to carry for the kids. The TSA officers are happier when you aren't so stressed so everyone wins.

So no matter what level of traveler you are, if you see those Black, Blue and Green signs at the start of the security line, choose the level that suits you best and everyone will be on their way with fewer problems.

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