The Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, updates travel requirements and issues information for traveler’s awareness to keep everyone as safe as possible while traveling. Even though it can be a nuisance, we must follow the new rules, which seem to change often.
TSA asks travel agents to make their customers aware of tips and requirements before they go.
TSA now requires airlines to collect the exact name on ID, plus date of birth, and redress number if a traveler has been issued one. Travel agents and tour operators must collect this information when making airline reservations. Travelers may be denied boarding or delayed if the information on their reservations is not accurate.
Redress number
Secure Flight is the behind the scenes watch list issued by the TSA. For travelers frequently asked to go through extra scrutiny at the airport, or having screening issues, a redress number may be important. This advanced program will allow the traveler to set up an inquiry as to why this is happening. After applying, a redress number may be given to attach to an airline reservation, and hopefully eliminate the extra scrutiny.
TSA guidelines to follow as of today:
Carry-on luggage
1. Travelers are allowed 3.4 oz (100ml) bottles in a clear 1 quart zip top bag per passenger. This enables the security officers to check and clear items quicker collected into one bag separated from the carry-on bag. Some bottled water and beverages can now be purchased after screening that can be brought aboard the plane.
2. Medications, food, and baby formula are allowed in limited quantities. Check with the airline or TSA for specific questions. They need to be declared at the security checkpoint.
3. Items such as box cutters, knives and razor blades are not permitted in carry-on bags. Sporting goods such as baseball bats and golf clubs are not permitted, along with tools such as hammers. Scissors with blades less than 4 inches and disposable razor blades are permitted in carry-on bags. Travel professionals can advise their clients by going to, http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm for a list of items that can be carried on and checked in baggage.
4. If in doubt, the items should not be put in the carry-on bag, but be sure it is suitable then to put in checked bags.
Checked bags
Checked bags will also be scanned, and can be opened and searched as well. Any sharp objects in checked luggage should be wrapped as not to harm baggage handlers that may inspect your checked luggage.
Alerts
The State Department issued an alert, October 3, for U.S. citizens traveling to Europe to be particularly cautious and be aware of possible terrorist attacks. The State Department suggests registering travel arrangements with the Consulate Section of the U.S. Embassy, before traveling. The most recent security information can be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 from the U.S.A. and Canada.
When in doubt, check the TSA web pages, as rules for flying change often. Travel professionals have increasing amount of responsibility for making sure their customers fly without interruption.
Click here to read my blog concerning TSA requirements.