As I remember from the implementation of Triple A (Accounting and Authoristaion of baggage for carriage by Air, if I remember correctly), in the UK, there was a steep learning curve required for ensuring that bags did not travel without their respective owners. This did cause delays, and did lead to extra costs to the carriers, however, once everybody was used to the procedures, it worked in the end. Indeed it led to a reduction in the number of mishandled bags.
In my opinion, after the events of the 11th, it is a bullet that the airlines in the states will have to bite, if they are to restore the travelling publics confidence in air travel.
