The continuing fallout of NW253 - IFE is back on ... but...

Well with the massive changes happening, it seems that now this could hurt operators, with shares in Delta and AMR (American) dropping by about 4%, UAL (United) down 3.4% and US Airways down 6.7%, with fears that this incident will depress air travel further than it is at the moment, and that the extra costs of implementing security changes will affect the back pocket - let alone the experience in the ground or the air.

Meanwhile there seems to be some libraliation of the knee jerk reaction, with the following in the TSA Directives:

• Extended security wait times, allow at least two hours for security at the gate.
• A physical pat down by security at the gate prior to boarding all flights to the United States
• A complete physical inspection of all bags being carried on flights to the United States
• Flight crew may make no announcements or reference to position or landmarks while flying over US airspace

Maddening things like:

• IFE shutdown T -1 hour before landing
• Access to carry on items T -1 Hour
• Blankets

have been recinded, pending further desisions by the TSA, however

• Satalite Phones
• Moving Maps

Are still awaiting clarification.

TSA Directive SD-1544-09-06 has been posted at  http://www.elliott.org/blog/full-text-of-sd-1544-09-06-authorizing-pat-downs-physical-inspection/ which is the initial response.

President Obama has requested a full review of airline security. In other words, Napoli and the DHS/TSA will have to get their ass out of gear and work for once. 

The message for travellers alas is clear as crystal. Arrive early, Expect delays and expect everyone to be twitchy.

More advice and commentary:
http://boardingarea.com/blogs/flyingwithfish/2009/12/28/tsa-modifies-sd-1544-09-06-who-will-fix-the-broken-system/
http://www.elliott.org/blog/full-text-of-sd-1544-09-06-authorizing-pat-downs-physical-inspection/
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8432947.stm