Since 911 I've been pulled aside and received extra scrutiny every time
I've flown with recording equipment. Usually the security people slide
my case across the table to me and stand back as I open it. The
microphones and preamp seem to be the most frightening items for them to
touch and they try to figure out what I'm carrying.
The only theft so far has been my AA and 9volt batteries. While
traveling US->Mexico->US I wasn't allowed to carry on any batteries and
had to put them in my check-in luggage. Upon arrival I found my bag had
been rifled thru and all the batteries taken. Luckily I had extras
hidden away and got my recordings...so much for "tight security"
I can realize that a case with mics, recorders and cables must look
pretty suspicious under an x-ray, but having equipment confiscated
and/or stolen is just not acceptable. I don't mind saying that I feel my
privacy and personal security has been greatly compromised by the
current laws and standards. We carry on our recording gear because it
is crucial to our work and very valuable. Perhaps shipping equipment is
now the way to go despite the expense and hassle.
I guess the next thread after this should be which shippers are the best
and packing tips. :-)
Will
---------------------
Wild Sanctuary wrote:
> With the new Homeland Security mandates in place, it has become a
> real problem to check audio gear through in baggage on the same
> flight, especially if your field equipment is too large to fit (with
> your clothes and other personal items) in a carry-on. The Transp.
> Sec. Agency requires that all bags be left unlocked if they are to be
> checked through as baggage so that they can be inspected by hand.
> Locked bags are summarily broken into.
> Anyone else having these problems?
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
|