New security make safer skies

There’s a new line of security at the Greater Rochester International Airport, but you might not notice it at first glance. There’s a new set of eyes checking on passengers.

“I think it’s wonderful that you go the extra mile to make it safer to fly,” said Charlie Nesbitt, a frequent flyer.

A group of trained agents will now be on the front lines checking I.D.’s and boarding passes at the main security checkpoint.

“Now the training is going to fall directly under TSA, so whether they're trained today or a month from now, it will be on a more consistent level,” said David Damelio, director of the Rochester airport.

Before Monday, workers were contracted through airlines, and they had less training. Employees are now better educated on how to find fake I.D.’s and potential terrorist threats.

So you may be wondering if you will have to get to the airport even earlier. Airport officials say ‘no.” Security workers will be able to check your I.D. in a matter of seconds.

“It's probably going to run a bit smoother,” Damelio said. “I think you're going to see a staff that's very well educated and trained.”

So far, there have been no delays, but most passengers say even if there were a longer wait, their safety is worth it.

“Security's important to all of us,” said Alan Baker, a frequent flyer. “I think there's been some breakdowns in security, and I think that's probably in part due to the fact that people aren't well trained.”

“I absolutely think it's much safer,” Nesbitt said. “I'm happy that they go above and beyond to go through the checkpoint.”