The Transportation Security Administration is now allowing airlines to store the birth dates of their passengers, a change meant to bring some relief to those who are routinely confused for being terrorists.
If you have a name that is always getting flagged because it matches one on a terrorist watchlist — a common, sad but true occurrence these days — the TSA says storing birth dates will allow airlines to more quickly verify that you are not the same person who is on the list.
The TSA itself keeps two lists: one a strict “no fly,” and another in which passengers are tagged for special attention at airport check-in and security.
Right now, those unlucky enough to have names matching names on terrorist watchlists are barred from checking in for their flights online and must instead present themselves to an agent at the airport.
Anybody’s name out there ever raise a flag at the airport?