Hi - haven't flown for a few months and I've heard some unsettling things recently about suitcase searches. Can you stay with your bag and watch while they search thru it? I'm talking about the checked luggage now. I don't trust these security people at all. Anyone have any experiences w/ this?

The short answer is no. If your checked luggage is flagged to be inspected, it will be done once it goes on the conveyer belt behind the ticket counter. Therefore, it is important not to lock your suitcase, or they will break the lock if it needs to be inspected. I had my suitcase inspected on my last flight without any problem. If it is inspected, the TSA (Transportation Security Agency) will place a slip of paper inside to let you know that they searched your luggage. The bottom line is that you should not put any valuable items in checked luggage, keep them with you in your carry-on.

DavidDJ is not entirely correct. The answer is that it depends on the airport. I was able to watch my bag being searched at White Plains (NY) Airport and would have had the same opportunity, had security decide to search mine at San Francisco Airport.

I agree with HowardR. At some airports the x-ray machines are set-up right at the check-in counters in which case you will be with your luggage while it's being searched. But some of the less used airports do not have the option, as the machines are too expensive to justify having one at each counter, or other airports just don't have the room in front. In that case they have the machine(s) somewhere in the back to consolidate all the check-in counters or because they have more room back there. If that's the case, then no, you will not be allowed to be with your luggage while it's being checked. DavidDJ was correct about not putting a lock on your luggage, because if the luggage is picked to be searched, they will use force. Many folks advice on using cable plastic ties, as they are cheap and easy enough for the TSA folks to break if needed. You could buy a package of them at any hardware, even bigger drug stores for few dollars. I'm not sure if you know that the 'new' security people are all federal employees now. The days of private security companies are gone. Hope that helps reassure you somewhat.

The other is to make sure you make a list of everything you pack and keep it on you in case anything is missing. If you don't want a total mess, we have ogne to using 2 gallon ziploc bags. I put all my tops in one, slacks in another, shoes...etc. you get the picture. It sure saved me time when the had to go thru it when I carried on my luggage. They can just pick each one up and look through them. I do the same with any magazines and things in my carry-on purse. Then everything isn't dumped and you have to hurry to get it all back in your purse/briefcase.

It does depend on the airport. At MIA, for example (at the AA counters), not only CAN you watch, but they call you over when they check out your bag. Check with the particular airport/airline.