TSA Offers Fly Smart Summer Tips

(April 9, 2008 - DTN) -- As families around the nation head into the busy summer travel season, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is urging travelers to “pack smart” and to remember “3-1-1″ when taking liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on baggage. Passengers can speed their own screening process by preparing ahead of time and checking out TSA’s travel tips on the web at tsa.gov.

Passengers are allowed to carry through the security checkpoint small amounts of liquids, gels and aerosols in containers of three ounces or less that fit comfortably in one quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag. Each passenger may bring one plastic zip-top bag. They must remove the bag from their carry-on and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening. They may bring on board the aircraft larger-size liquid and gel items, including beverages, provided they are purchased beyond the checkpoint in the secure boarding area. Bringing prohibited items to the airport will cause delays in the screening process. If passengers are not sure which items are prohibited, check TSA’s website for a complete list.

Packing tips include: Laptops must be removed from cases and placed in a bin to go through X-ray; in addition to one carry-on and one personal item, passengers may have a photography bag if it contains only photographic equipment. Film should be packed in a carry-on bag. Film faster than 800-speed can be handed to a security officer for physical inspection to avoid being X-rayed. Security officers may have to open bags during the screening process. If a bag is locked and TSA cannot open it through other means, the lock may have to be broken. TSA is not liable for damage caused to locked bags that must be opened for security purposes. TSA suggests that passengers help prevent the need to break a lock by using a TSA-recognized lock. These locks can be opened by TSA and can be purchased at multiple retail outlets. A list of recognized locks can be found at tsa.gov.

Arrival time recommendations vary by airline and day of travel, so check with the carrier. Passengers are asked to provide valid government-issued photo ID with their boarding pass at the checkpoint. Remember to leave adequate time to check baggage and move through security. All shoes must be removed and placed in a plastic bin for screening before entering the walk-through metal detector. To speed the screening process, TSA strongly encourages wearing shoes that are easy to remove. Metal in clothing may set off the walk-through metal detector. Pack coins, keys, jewelry, belt buckles and other metal items in a carry-on bag. Passengers will also need to remove blazers, suit coats and bulky sweaters in addition to outer garments. Sport coats and warm-up jackets should also be taken off and placed in the bins for X-ray. Belligerent behavior, inappropriate jokes and threats will not be tolerated. Such incidents will result in delays and possibly missing the flight. Local law enforcement may be called as necessary.