Let The Airport Scramble Begin

By Kate Novack

Airline traffic is still struggling to make a comeback from the slump caused by the economy, war in Iraq and fears of terrorism. But with the start of the summer, the crowds may be returning soon. Here's a flyer's guide to some recent arrivals and departures at airports that are making life easier and tougher for passengers. --By Kate Novack

ARRIVALS

BAG-SCREENING MACHINES

As of Jan. 1, airports are required to screen all checked luggage. But the huge electronic detection machines that are now seen in many airports haven't slowed things down as much as some had feared.

FOOD TO FLY

As airline meals disappear, airport concessionaires are stepping in with souped-up meals-to-go. Anton Airfood has begun selling ergonomically packaged meals at 10 airports and hopes to add three more this summer.

KID-FRIENDLY SECURITY

In Denver, screeners use stickers and hand puppets to make security checks fun for kids. And more airports have attractions like interactive play areas and model jets to keep kids occupied during those long waits.

DEPARTURES

TSA SCREENERS

The Transportation Security Administration plans to eliminate 6,000 of its screeners by the end of September. The cuts are spurring security concerns and are likely to result in longer wait times at screening checkpoints.

LONG CHECK-IN LINES

At least you can get to those security lines faster. As electronic check-in spreads to more airports, the wait time at check-in counters is shrinking. And the process may get even easier. Las Vegas' McCarran Airport is about to unveil kiosks that issue boarding passes for multiple airlines.

SKYCAPS

They're still around, but one of their traditional jobs is disappearing. The advent of bags with wheels may have been a boon for the luggage industry (and sore shoulders), but how many people still need an airport porter to carry their bags?