One of major concerns that came out of 9/11 was the overhaul of air travel security, as has been covered extensively in these pages . Unfortunately, protracted security lines at airports has been one of the most inconvenient of all reforms. Recent controversy has again risen in the industry with statements by current and former air marshals. This week, the national director of the Federal Air Marshals will be in Denver, a visit that has precipitated a flurry of discussion among the ranks.

Last month, a 28-page draft report that was the product of a two-year investigation by the House Judiciary Committee at the request of James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) included the service?s dress code and check-in procedures, both of which obfucate marshals’ anonymity. The report also included criticism of media outlets that profile marshals at work, revealing details that would aid terrorists to spot them on aircraft. Although the public comments did not disclose classified or sensitive information, the air marshals are trying to voice their concerns in the view of the public and their national director. “To tell you the truth, the American people aren’t safe and neither are the air marshals,” said one air marshal. “I am definitely more afraid of my managers than I am of terrorists,” another air marshal said.