Travel Regulations

Travel Tips and Regulations

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New Regulations From Homeland Security Regarding Airline Travel

Effective Tuesday, September 26, TSA Is Adjusting The Ban On Liquids, Aerosols And Gels. Travelers may now carry through security checkpoints travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit comfortably in ONE, QUART-SIZE, clear plastic, zip-top bag.(8.5X7.5). After clearing security, travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area on-board aircraft. At the checkpoint travelers will be asked to remove the zip-top bag of liquids and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt. X-raying separately will allow TSA security officers to more easily examine the declared items.

It is unlikely that additional changes in the liquid, aerosol and gel policy will be made in the near future. This security regimen applies to all domestic and international flights departing U.S. airports. Travelers should, however, check with transportation security authorities in their country-of-origin for flights originating at non-U.S. airports.
For more details on how these measures affect you read our questions and answers on the new measures. Security Measure Questions and Answers at www.tsa.gov.

  

Travel Tips To Make Your Screening Experience Hassle-free

The secret to getting through security smoothly is to de-clutter your carry-on bag. This lets our Transportation Security Officers get a clear, uncomplicated X-ray image of your carry-on. When possible, keep packing liquids in checked baggage. You will get through security faster. Limit quantities to what is needed for the duration of the flight.

Items purchased in the secure boarding area are for use on the immediate flight. If you must leave the secure boarding area and re-enter through the screening checkpoint, items exceeding 3 ounces that are not in the zip-top bag will again be prohibited. Before you fly, understand what you can and cannot bring and how these security measures impact your trip . Permitted and Prohibitted Items

The ban on liquids, aerosols and gels was implemented on August 10 after a terrorist plot was foiled. Since then, experts from around the government, including the FBI and our national labs have analyzed the information we now have and have conducted extensive explosives testing to get a better understanding of this specific threat. These changes are intended to enhance security and balance human needs because we have a better understanding of the threat and security risks associated with liquids, aerosols and gels.

In addition, TSA will be enhancing security measures throughout the airport environment – more random screening of employees, additional canine patrols, stronger air cargo security measures, more rigorous identity verification, deploying more trained security officers in bomb appraisal, and screening by observation techniques.

To ensure the health and welfare of certain air travelers there are no limits on the amounts of the following liquids, gels and aerosols you may carry through a security checkpoint:

• Baby formula and breast milk if a baby or small child is traveling;
• All prescription and over-the-counter medications (liquids, gels, and aerosols) including KY jelly, eye drops, and saline solution for medical purposes;
• Liquids including water, juice, or liquid nutrition or gels for passengers with a disability or medical condition;
• Life-support and life-sustaining liquids such as bone marrow, blood products, and transplant organs;
• Items used to augment the body for medical or cosmetic reasons such as mastectomy products, prosthetic breasts, bras or shells containing gels, saline solution, or other liquids;
• Gels or frozen liquids needed to cool disability or medically related items used by persons with disabilities or medical conditions.

You are not limited in the amount or volume of these above items you may bring in your carry-on baggage. However, if these items are in containers larger than three ounces, please perform the following:

• Separate these items from the liquids, gels, and aerosols in your quart-size and zip-top bag.
• Declare you have the items to one of our Security Officers at the security checkpoint.
• Present these items for additional inspection once reaching the X-ray. These items are subject to additional screening.

We have also taken steps to ensure the security boarding areas after you pass through our security checkpoints. Therefore, any liquid, gel, or aerosol such as coffee or soda purchased in the secure area after you process through a security checkpoint is allowed aboard your plane.

You are permitted to bring solid cosmetics and personal hygiene items as such lipstick, lip balm and similar solids.We ask for your cooperation in the screening process by being prepared before you arrive. We also ask that you follow the guidelines above and try not to over-think these guidelines. Please pack liquids, gels, and aerosols in your checked baggage even if you do not normally check a bag.

In addition to liquids, gels, and aerosols numerous other potentially dangerous items are not permitted in carry-on baggage. We strongly encourage travelers to read more about previously prohibited items to avoid complications during screening.

 

How every passenger can assist in security:

• Pack lightly without clutter to facilitate easier screening
• Arrive earlier than usual at the airport
• Cooperate with TSA personnel at checkpoints and with airline personnel at all gates
• Be attentive and vigilant to any suspicious activity and report it to authorities. 

 

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