CLEVELAND — It’s the newest travel app, but it doesn’t give directions.
Rather, it files complaints with the Transportation Security Administration.
“The app, in short, is a quick and easy way for people to file official complaints of unfair treatment at the airport screen line in real time,” said Amardeep Singh, director of programs for the Sikh Coalition.
The ‘Fly Rights’ app released on Monday was created by the Sikh Coalition.
In addition to sending the complaints to the TSA, it also can send a copy to the Sikh Coalition so they can track them.
The coalition claims Sikh are often subjected to additional TSA screenings because of their dress, which includes turbans.
“Secondary screening, in our cases, pat-downs of our turbans and the like that are outside of the normal screening procedures and despite the fact that a person is clear a metal detector or pass a body scan without any incident,” Singh said.
Fox 8 News reached out to the TSA and a representative sent us this emailed response:
“TSA’s diverse workforce is committed to treating each traveler with dignity and respect throughout the screening process. TSA does not profile passengers on the basis of race, ethnicity or religion. We continually engage with community organizations, including the Sikh Coalition, and individuals to help us understand unique passenger concerns and we support efforts to gather passenger feedback about the screening process…”
Fox 8 News showed the app to travelers at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
“As an African-American, I’m very sensitive about things like that but I think you can go too far,” traveler Dr. Louis Sullivan said.
“I guess my first thought is, would I think to use it? Would I have it on my phone for anything other than I am always looking for a fight?” said traveler Ellen Armer.
“I usually just go through and get on my flight and go. I don’t worry about that,” said Sylvia Sanchez.
