Because there have been no terrorists incidents at airports or in the air in the U.S. for several years, passengers have become complacent. But not the ever-watchful TSA (Transportation Security Administration). The security and check-in procedures are still tight, and as of August 15, 2009, they’re getting even tighter.

With the new TSA “Secure Flight” program, for passengers who make domestic flight reservations, U.S. airlines must now report each person’s scheduled itinerary, full birth name, date of birth and gender. TSA may also require a redress statement signed by the passenger. Redress gives passengers the right to later file complaints against airlines for alleged unfair delays or refusal to board them.

TSA requires the same data on international flights from the U.S. as of October 31, 2009. The added information is intended to give government agencies more detailed information when there is need to do instant computer checks to help identify known and suspected terrorists on the No Fly List, and prevent possible 9/11/01 types of disasters from happening again.