As your clients embark on their summer travel plans, they’ll be met with stricter security measures at the airport as TSA is implementing new regulations for carry-on items.
Going into effect on June 30, 2018, powders in carry-on bags may require secondary screening, and if the powder cannot be cleared by security officials, it will not be allowed in the aircraft. Certain powders will be exempt from secondary screening, including baby formula, medically necessary powders and human remains. This policy only applies to international flights into the U.S. and not flights departing from the U.S. as TSA has already enhanced procedures at its security checkpoints.
To avoid having powders thrown out, American Airlines is recommending that powders in containers larger than 12 oz/350 ml—about the size of a standard can of soda—should be placed in checked baggage.
Delta Air Lines has also issued some advice to travelers to make sure things go smoothly at the security lines. A recent post on its website states, “In addition to screening personal electronic devices separately, TSA officers may ask travelers to remove other items from their carry-on bags and place them in the bins, such as foods, powders and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine. Travelers are also encouraged to organize carry-on bags, keeping them uncluttered, to ease the screening process and keep the lines moving.”
Other tips from TSA include advising passengers to have their ID’s and boarding passes in hand and ready to show the TSA agent before they approach the podium ahead of security, and packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols larger than 3.4 ounces in a checked bag. TSA’s advice if your clients are unsure whether their item is classified as a liquid, gel or aerosol?
“A good rule of thumb is that if the item can be spilled, sprayed, spread, pumped or poured, it’s defined as a liquid, gel or aerosol.”
For more information, visit tsa.gov.
