Helping Hassled Flyers

By SALLY B. DONNELLY

Another summer travel season is approaching and along with it some changes in the skies. United will soon become the first airline to install a retractable metal barrier outside the cockpit. Although the airlines strengthened cockpit doors after Sept. 11, United is putting in the new layer of protection for times when the flight deck has to be opened. Meanwhile, an array of new gadgets and services is on the market, aimed at helping flyers deal with crowds and security hassles. --By Sally B. Donnelly

KNEE DEFENDERS Two plastic devices fit on your tray table to keep the seat in front from reclining too much. They have the FAA's approval. $14.95

MAILING HOME When your scissors, knives and other taboo items are confiscated, you can send them home in MailBack padded envelopes. Shipping--and a pen --included. $6.95

SEARCHALERT Locks allow security agents to open your luggage even if you have locked it. New twist: a green button turns red to let you know it has been searched. $7.99

CLEANSING THE AIR The Air Supply wearable purifier claims to clean the air around you of dust, odor and pollutants. $125