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1. There are increased passenger and baggage security screenings. Airports are managed independently?do not expect the same security procedures in all cities.
2. New luggage check-in procedures:
Curbside luggage check-in is available at some airlines at some airports and is the best way to avoid the airline front-counter check-in lines. Call your airline to verify that this service is available.
You must check your bags yourself and must show current government-issued photo identification (driver's license or passport.) Be prepared to present your photo ID and boarding pass at the airline check-in counter, at the security checkpoint, and again at the gate. You may also be subject to additional screening at the gate.
3. Understand what may be carried on and what must be packed in checked baggage:
No knives or box cutters of any size will be allowed in the aircraft cabin. Pocketknives may be carried only in checked baggage.
No sharp objects of any kind or size will be allowed through security checkpoints including scissors, multipurpose tools, ect. They will be confiscated. Pack these items in your checked luggage.
The FAA allows walking canes and umbrellas onboard, and safety razors (including disposables), nail clippers, tweezers, and syringes (permitted only for passengers with documented medical needs) in carry-on bags. Plastic scissors or metal scissors with blunt points, or metal scissors with pointed tips and blades shorter than 4 inches in length are also permitted.
Empty out all pockets in carry-on purses, briefcases, and suitcases to remove any restricted items.
Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for carrying on cosmetics, toiletries, and all liquids, gels or aerosols:
3 ounce (100 ml) or smaller containers of liquids or gels
1 quart-size (1 liter) clear plastic, zip-top bag to hold the 3 ounce containers
1 bag only per traveler placed in the security bin for screening.
4. Only ticketed passengers may pass through the security checkpoint.
5.Check Your Bag or Carry It On?
Airports advise checking bags to reduce your wait at security checkpoints.
According to the FAA, passengers on domestic flights are limited to one carry-on bag not to exceed 45 linear inches (length + width + height), plus one personal item such as a purse, laptop, or briefcase.
It is now possible and recommended to lock your luggage with TSA-approved locks that can be opened by TSA screeners so bag contents may be inspected. Look for "Travel Sentry" or "Safe Skies" locks, available in luggage and travel shops.
There is heightened vigilance for identifying and confiscating unattended bags. Do not leave your bag unattended at any time or place while traveling.
6. Increased Security Takes More Time
Call your airline to see how much time you should allow at the airport. Many recommend arriving at least 1 1/2 hours in advance for domestic flights, 2 hours in advance for international flights. Allow even more time for peak hours or holiday travel.
In addition to electronic scanning of baggage, airline personnel and security checkpoint guards will randomly open and check bags. To speed this process:
Go directly to the security checkpoint. Lines build in seconds, so don't get caught with too little time to clear security. Use airport services inside the secure area.
Pack a healthy dose of patience plus a book or magazine to pass the waiting time.
Pack bags so contents are easily examined. Use see-through containers to speed hand checking of clothing.
Speed up hand searches by packing a bag that has one large open space rather than many compartments, and don't use the small pockets.
Empty pockets of unnecessary coins or keys, and avoid large metal belt buckles or jewelry. Passenger screening equipment has been set to lower tolerances. Leave extra jewelry at home or pack in your checked bag. Place your wallet and jewelry in your carry-on when passing through the screening station so they will be X-rayed.
You will be asked to remove your shoes and coat and pass them through the screening machine. You may also be subjected to handheld metal detector wand searches and hand pat downs.
Check for all your belongings before leaving the screening area! Wallets, keys and coins, jewelry, cell phones?even laptops?are often forgotten.
7. Minimize Screening Time
Scanning equipment reads a total of the metal on you. Metal buttons, zippers, hair accessories, shoe fittings and shanks may add up to wanding and pat down searches. Pare down by packing metal items in a checked bag or placing in your carry-on at security.
Women should consider wearing a bra without an underwire to avoid wand and hand pat-down searches.
Limit the electronic equipment (cell phones, CD players, pagers, games, etc.) and place in your carry-on bag. You may be asked to prove that they work, so have batteries installed.
Laptop computers must be removed from a travel case so both can be X-rayed separately.
Purchase beverages (coffee, soft drinks) inside the secure area after passing through security. Otherwise, they must be carefully examined.
Powdery products (talcum powder, make-up, flour, coffee creamer, craft products, etc) may even bring out the Hazardous Materials Team. Seal these products in strong plastic bags and pack in your checked baggage only.
Wrapped packages may be unwrapped, searched, and confiscated. Pack in a checked bag or plan to wrap upon arrival.
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