TSA Self-Selecting Security Lanes

TSA has self-selecting security lanes. If you don't know what that is, it refers to black diamonds, blue squares and green circles. I know you may be thinking, “Huh?!” These are the color coded signs at TSA airport checkpoints designed to expedite you through the security process. According to the TSA, those lanes are working. Every time I've ever been to Atlanta, they don't ever seem to have them going. As a matter of fact, not at any other airport I've been to since they've had them up.

In the last year or so, the U.S. Transportation Security Agency, the TSA, has implemented a plan that they hope will speed up the screening lines at U.S. airports.

Instead of having just one security line for everyone, there are three 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 difficult and for experts, or where it's moderate, or easy.

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 needs should use this lane if they need assistance or extra time.

You are allowed to take more than 3 ounces/100ml 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 Lane where possible.

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

The self-selecting 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.

I haven't really seen a difference. Comment and let me know about your experience.