Nicknames have long been a part of the sports business. "The Babe", "Say Hey Kid" and "A-Rod" are just a few examples. Successful small business owners also put nicknames to good use. For example, online entrepreneur Jeffrey Kim's nickname, "Jippidy" is a part of his personal and professional brand.
Many small business owners use a nickname as part of their
branding strategy. But using a nickname when you travel
could mean big delays or even missing a flight due to a change in
regulations coming to airports across the United States.
The Transportation Security Administration or TSA is making the
changes. The TSA is about to require you to use your full name to
get on the plane. Starting May 15th, 2009 TSA security
will expect your reservation to match the exact name on your
driver's license or passport.
If you order your tickets online, over the phone, or with a travel agent, you'll be responsible for giving your full name or risk facing a big hassle at the airport.
Travel experts say when making airline reservations, you need to give your exact legal name to match what is on your legal I. D. Don't be tempted to use nicknames or you could run into trouble.
And starting in August more information will be required before you board. Passengers will also be required to give the airline your date of birth and your gender to fly.
TSA's goal is to vet 100 percent of all domestic commercial flights by early 2010 and 100 percent of all international commercials flights by the end of 2010.
For more information visit www.tsa.gov.
