[Dave S]

The only way that would have been effective is if the airline had a video phone. Just calling would only verify a name and would in no way verify that the man holding an ID with that name on it was, in fact, who he claimed to be.

You dont think the Agent in Charge at the white House would recognize the voice of someone that works for him? If Master Card asks you for your mothers maiden name, last four digits of social security number, zip code, etc. you dont think the Agent in Charge couldnt ask the Agent a series of questions that only he would know the answer to?

Also ever hear of FAX or computers? The pilot wanted American to fax him photos of all known terrorists. Are you saying that within five minutes, the Secret Service couldnt fax or email either the pilot, the gate, the airline, or aiport police a full color photo of the agent.

[McGavin999]

And what makes you think all those people waiting in the plane should be asked to wait a little longer while all this happens? As it is, after the plane left, this was done and the agent went out on the next plane. Of course, that was AFTER it had been verified that he was in fact an officer and the agents supervisor apologized for the agent losing his temper.

The thing is, the situation WAS resolved, it had less to do with the agents nationality then it had to do with his threatening manner as well has his challange to authority. The captain of an airplane is responsible for the wellbeing of a multimillion dollar investment as well as the souls of a couple hundred human beings who are depending on that captain to get them where they are going safe and sound.

The more I think about this matter, the less respect I have for this agent.