Can anything make air travel a more pleasant experience? Unless it involves flying First Class and skipping airport security altogether, we’re not really sure. But, the Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security are sure going to try. The Post reported this morning that Dulles International Airport, along with Houston International, will be part of a pilot program to “present a warmer welcome to foreign visitors who face post-Sept. 11, 2001, security changes.” The Post reports:

The program will provide customized video messages and “friendly greeters” to assist travelers entering the United States, Rice said. Infrastructure improvements to Dulles are possible, another official said. “Think of when you go to Disney World,” said Roger Dow, president and chief executive of the Travel Industry Association of America, which pushed for the initiative with backing from Karen Hughes, undersecretary of state for public diplomacy and public affairs. “They manage the lines, you feel welcome and all that. You can accomplish both security and have a welcome mat out.”

Hmm…pardon our cynicism, but we’re not convinced “friendly greeters” will detract from the armed guards and dope-sniffing dogs that currently greet international arrivals. Nor, do we suspect, will it change the attitudes that are keeping foreigners away or ease the tension of trying to pass through U.S. Customs and Immigration.

Personally speaking, this DCist recently returned home after a fairly extensive trip abroad only to be faced with dour Customs and Immigration officials suspiciously eyeing our baggage and looking for any contraband that a family of four (with two senior citizens in tow) might possess. We understand that these often over-worked and under-paid officials are just doing their job, but being treated like a possible drug mule at every turn really isn’t the best way to say, “Welcome to America!”

Color us under-whelmed at the new initiative.