Surprise! Held Up Over Security Issues

A program meant to allow frequent fliers to sidestep many security hassles at the airport has been delayed, as the government and private businesses wrestle with ways to ensure security standards aren't compromised.

USA Today reports the Registered Traveler program -- which has been tested at five airports throughout the country -- was originally meant to be phased in this Tuesday... but TSA spokeswoman Yolanda Clark said the agency was still working with private firms running the program to make certain that it "does not decrease security in any way."

Registered Traveler would allow certain airline passengers to quickly go through a separate airport security lane if they paid a fee, submitted fingerprints, and passed a government background check.

The TSA wants private contractors to run the program... and for travelers to be able to use their registered status at every airport that offers it. Oh, and contractors must also ensure the program doesn't hold up travelers who aren't enrolled for the fast security clearance.

No word from the TSA on when the program might eventually be implemented.

FMI: www.tsa.gov