Travelers beware—TSA and Homeland Security are adding more travel restrictions.
Airport security has changed a lot since 2001. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regularly updates its rules and regulations to help detect any safety issues to help keep citizens safe. However, TSA’s new rule will likely draw criticism from passengers who carry cameras, tablets, and other electronics.
A Look at the New Rules
In June 2017, The Department of Homeland Security announced a travel ban on all large electronics (items bigger than a cell phone) allowed in airline cabins due to an “increased threat to aviation security.” DHS Secretary John Kelly announced the requirements for nearly 280 airports in more than 100 countries.
“Whether you’re flying to, from, or within the United States, TSA is committed to raising the baseline for aviation security by strengthening the overall security of our commercial aviation network to keep flying as a safe option for everyone,” said TSA Acting Administrator Huban A. Gowadia.
According to the TSA, the new requirements will allow staff to manage threats and identify items that might contain explosive charges.
Now, the changes are taking effect. The new screening procedures will require passengers to place all electronic devices larger than a cell phone in a separate bin for individual inspection when going through security checkpoints.
“This simple step helps TSA officers obtain a clearer X-ray image,” the TSA notes in a press release.
The new screening procedures are already in place at 10 airports:
Boise Airport (BOI)
Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Logan International Airport (BOS)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (LBB)
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
McCarran International Airport (LAS)
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Other airports will need to implement the procedures over the next few months.
What Is Allowed?
The TSA notes that there are no changes to what passengers can bring through the checkpoints. Electronics simply need to go through extra screening.
“It is critical for TSA to constantly enhance and adjust security screening procedures to stay ahead of evolving threats and keep passengers safe. By separating personal electronic items such as laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles for screening, TSA officers can more closely focus on resolving alarms and stopping terror threats,” said Gowadia.
The TSA outlines its carry-on rules for liquids with this easy-to-remember ratio: 3-1-1. Passengers can carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers sized for 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Those containers must fit inside one quart-sized, resealable bag.
The 3-1-1 rule was put into place after authorities captured terrorists attempting to use liquid explosives in 2006.
Medications or baby formula are allowed in amounts greater than three ounces, but passengers must declare them for inspection at the airport security checkpoint. Additionally, no firearms, weapons, flammable items, or certain sharp objects are allowed, for obvious reasons.
If you’re curious about a certain item, you can check the TSA’s website here to find out whether or not it’s allowed through security.