FAA Advises Air Travelers on Airport - Airline Security Measures

Reprinted with permission of FAA Aviation News

On October 8, the FAA issued the following tips to help air travelers meet and assist the heightened security measures implemented since the September 11 terrorist attacks. Please note that air travelers are limited to one carry-on bag and one personal item on all flights.

Allow extra time:

• The heightened measures require more time to properly screen travelers. Travelers should contact their airline to find out how early they should arrive at the airport.
• Take public transportation to the airport if possible. Parking and curbside access is likely to be controlled and limited.
• Curbside check-in is available on an airline-by-airline basis. Travelers should contact their airline to see if it is in place at their airport.

Check-in:

• A government-issued ID (federal, state or local) is required. Travelers may be asked to show this ID at subsequent points, such as at the gate, along with their boarding passes.
• Automated check-in kiosks are available for airlines that have appropriate security measures in place. Travelers interested in this option should check with their airline.
• E-ticket travelers should check with their airline to make sure they have proper documentation. Written confirmation, such as a letter from the airline acknowledging the reservation, may be required.

Screener checkpoints:

• Only ticketed passengers are allowed beyond the screener checkpoints, except for those with specific medical or parental needs.
• Each traveler will be limited to one carry-on bag and one personal bag (i.e., purse or briefcase).
• All electronic items, such as laptops and cell phones, may be subjected to additional screening. Be prepared to remove your laptop from its travel case so that both can be X-rayed separately.
• Limit metal objects worn on person.
• Travelers should remove all metal objects prior to passing through the metal detectors in order to facilitate the screening process.

Items prohibited from aircraft cabins. The following items must be placed in, or transported as, checked baggage or risk confiscation:

• Knives of any length, composition or description
• Cutting instruments of any kind and composition, including carpet knives and box cutters (and spare blades), any device with a folding or retractable blade, ice picks, straight razors, metal scissors, and metal nail files
• Corkscrews
  Baseball/softball bats
  Golf clubs
  Pool cues
  Ski poles
  Hockey sticks
• When in doubt, transport item in checked baggage

Permitted items:

• Walking canes and umbrellas (once inspected to ensure prohibited items are not concealed)
• Nail clippers
• Safety razors (including disposable razors)
• Syringes (with documented proof of medical need)
• Tweezers
• Eyelash curlers

At the gate:

• Travelers must be prepared to present a valid photo identification card, along with their boarding pass.
• Travelers and their bags may be subjected to additional screening.

At all times:

• Control all bags and personal items.
• Report any unattended items in the airport or aircraft to the nearest airport or airline personnel.