Airport 'Priority Fast Track' lanes spark ethical concerns: Privilege or benefit?

John Maytham interviews Andrew Thompson, freelance journalist.

Listen below.

In a News24 article titled ‘How much it costs to use the fast-track security lanes in SA airports - with or without a bank card', Andrew Thompson points out that airport security may be the worst part of travelling. More so if there's a long queue and you’re late for your flight.

ACSA and Discovery Bank introduced 'Priority Fast Track' lanes at the domestic terminals of OR Tambo and Cape Town airports, as well as at passport control at OR Tambo.

Chosen passengers can bypass regular security and passport control queues, reserved for Discovery Bank account holders and people designated as 'priority' by ACSA.

Access to these lanes and accompanying perks start at a monthly R110, with Discovery providing various account options.

Given their popularity, Thompson questions whether these lanes primarily serve those seeking privilege, or genuinely offer substantial benefits.

He suggests it appears airport security is capitalising on their inefficiencies, rather than addressing underlying security issues.

Thompson also raises ethical concerns about a company providing exclusive access to a national asset.

"I too would not necessarily pay that amount for it, but I do think it's an increasing trend around the world."

- Andrew Thompson, freelance journalist

"There's obviously some sort of demand."

- Andrew Thompson, freelance journalist

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