The Saturday of the CO Houston event was by far the more interesting. Our day began with a tour of the new immigration and customs and the baggage handling facilities. Watching the bags zip on conveyor belts through the airport, then sort themselves to the right locations made it seem amazing that any bags actually make it where they’re supposed to go. To top it off, I caught a glimpse of the room where the TSA baggage screeners remove articles from your checked bags. Larry Kellner, the CEO, then hosted a Q&A session with all 250 attendees, giving primarily straightforward answers to the many concerns that were shared. While there was disagreement over the strategy in some locations, it was a relief to hear plain English responses.
Afterward we had a buffet Mexican dinner, then drinks at the Hyatt a few blocks away from the airport. Having met a few of my fellow Flyertalks, like vincom, xyzzy, dcrombie, and nicksterguy, I can say they’re a cool bunch.
And the most controversial item from the whole weekend? Who stole the blue elite access carpet?