It kind of does!
There are a few things the Brompton has going for it:
- It looks like luggage. With the bag clipped to the front block, the whole thing operates as a pull-along. I don't look that different from anyone else dragging luggage. This is, shall we say, soothing to the airport security mindset. This is also quite distinct to the Brompton: I know of no other bicycle that handles this way w/ luggage attached.
- It fits through the X-ray belt. I had to turn the saddle so the nose was sideways, but it fits just perfectly. This impressed the TSA; they were sort of discreetly gathering around and rubbernecking the bicycle. A couple of them complimented me on it. This is the first time the TSA has been actively nice to me, although I've had plenty of polite encounters (and quite a few tired, cranky people as well). I bet a Strida would fit as well, but I'm dubious about a Tikit: anyone experienced here?
- I was flying Southwest. They are known to have a relaxed policy about gate-checking sports equipment, including folding bikes. Some other airlines, particularly major carriers, are becoming increasingly customer-hostile and there are ugly stories of people being refused this common courtesy and charged up to $100 to check a folder as a regular bike. I choose not to patronize those carriers, for a number of excellent reasons.
In general, most carriers will treat it no differently from a pair of skis or a guitar; they'll take it at the gate, check it, and handle it reasonably respectfully. I submit that baby strollers are far more delicate than a Brompton, and parents probably check ten thousand strollers a day in the US without incident.