CONTACT: Caleb Tiller | 703-684-0836 ext. 38
Alexandria, VA (June 16, 2004) -- The National Business Travel Association (NBTA) today expressed its support for the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) plan to test a Registered Traveler program. Today TSA announced that later this month it will launch a pilot program for frequent air travelers to volunteer for thorough pre-screening that would allow for expedited security screening at the airport.
“For more than two years NBTA has promoted the concept of a registered traveler program that would enhance security and expedite the screening process,” said NBTA President and CEO Carol A. Devine, CCTE. “We were encouraged last month when NBTA testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and committee Chair Senator George Allen (R-VA) expressed his clear support for the idea. Now we are pleased to know that the TSA will test such a program.”
NBTA advocates security measures that enable security screeners to focus efforts more effectively on travelers who pose a potential risk. Such focused efforts would bolster security, speed the screening process and reduce screening costs.
The Association also promotes a development process for the Registered Traveler program that closely involves NBTA and other representatives of the travel industry and the general public. An open development process would lead to the best program and should alleviate concerns raised by those who question the effectiveness of the initiative, including privacy.
Devine added, “In multiple conversations with TSA, NBTA has offered to provide volunteers for the pilot. We hope to participate directly, and we will monitor the success of the experiment in terms of the value it provides frequent business travelers.”
The National Business Travel Association is the source for critical information on the business travel industry. For more than 35 years, NBTA has dedicated itself to the professional development of its members through advocacy, education and training, and networking opportunities. NBTA represents over 2,400 corporate travel managers and travel service providers, who collectively manage and direct more than $170 billion of expenditures within the business travel industry.
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