An overwhelming number of business travel managers, hospitality industry and travel agents believe that the implementation of the CAPPS II program constitutes an invasion of personal privacy and will further reduce business travel, according to a survey conducted by the Association of Corporate Travel Executives. Two hundred and fifty-five travel managers, travel agents, and hoteliers responded to the poll. This poll drew the third largest response for issues presented in the last 12 months, with one of the fastest response times, a further indication that individuals feel strongly about the issue.

The survey was conducted in response to the announcement that at least one carrier will soon begin testing a new government plan (CAPPS II) for increased security by scanning the personal records (including credit reports and bank records) of everyone who buys a ticket for a commercial flight. Based on an evaluation of the data, passengers will receive an encrypted coding on their ticket that allows them to board freely, to undergo increased scrutiny, or to be denied boarding.


Not clear are several key points, such as:

• Who will have access to the information?

• How long will the information be held on file (unconfirmed reports say 50 years)?

• What is the complete criteria for evaluation (may include such things as conviction record, driving record or firearms ownership)?

• What is the recourse for getting your classification changed?

The purpose of this survey was to determine the travel industry's support for this program, its objections, or comments.



1) Do you think the purchase of an airline ticket warrants this level of personal scrutiny?

Yes 20% No 80%


2) Do you regard this level of federal scrutiny as an invasion of personal privacy?

Yes 82% No 18%


3) Should the federal government define the criteria for evaluation?
Yes 71% No 29%


4) Should the process for changing your evaluation become public knowledge?

Yes 55% No 45%


5) Do you think this process would discourage or encourage travelers to use a particular carrier?

Encourage 21% Discourage 79%


6) If this process were adopted by all carriers, would the risk of personal investigation discourage airline travel?

Yes 64% No 36%


7) Do you trust the government not to use this program for other purposes?
Trust 18% Don't trust 82%