New Regulation On Lithium Batteries Goes Into Effect

A new regulation, designed to reduce the risk of lithium battery fires, will go in effect on Jan. 1, 2008. Loose extended-life, spare rechargeable lithium batteries will no longer be allowed in checked luggage. Passengers will be allowed to bring only two such batteries in carry-ons and they must be carried in either the original retail packaging or in a plastic zip-lock bag.

Lithium batteries are typically found in electronic devices such as laptops and video cameras. Batteries stored in electronic devices - including cameras, cell phones and laptops - are still allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage.

TSA Approved Locks

TSA screens every passenger's baggage before it is placed on an airplane. While technology allows TSA to electronically screen bags, there are times when they need to physically inspect a piece of luggage. TSA has worked with several companies to develop locks that can be opened by security officers using universal "master" keys so that the locks may not have to be cut. These locks are available at airports and travel stores nationwide. The packaging on the locks indicates whether they can be opened by TSA.

Visit TSA's website at www.tsa.gov for a list of approved locks.

More Info

TSA Announces Procedural Changes at the Checkpoint

In an effort to concentrate resources on detecting explosive threats, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today announced it will no longer enforce the ban on common lighters in carry-on luggage. Torch lighters will continue to be banned in carry-ons. The agency collects more than 22,000 lighters a day which represents a high percentage of all prohibited items surrendered at checkpoints nationwide. The measures will be implemented on August 4th.

"Explosives remain the most significant threat to aviation," said Kip Hawley TSA administrator."By enabling our officers to focus on the greatest threats we are using our officers' time and energy more effectively and increasing security for passengers."

TSA is also modifying the procedures associated with carrying breast milk through security checkpoints. Mothers flying with or without their child will be permitted to bring breast milk in quantities greater than three ounces as long as it is declared for inspection at the security checkpoint.

The procedural adjustments were developed based on process and effectiveness studies, feedback from the workforce and regular consultation with airports, airlines and other security partners. This marks the third modification to security procedures within the last year. On August 10, 2006, a complete ban on liquids, gels and aerosols was implemented immediately following the thwarted terror plot in the United Kingdom, and the update to those measures permitting travel-size amounts of liquids went into effect in September of 2006.

TSA has notified Congress of these changes and will soon begin training its workforce of 43,000 security officers. The United States previously had been the only nation in the world to prohibit lighters from carry-ons. Lifting this ban is another step in our efforts to harmonize security measures with international partners. Since August 2006, 59 countries around the world have adopted the 3-1-1 standard for liquids, gels and aerosols: three ounce containers, in one clear, zip-top plastic bag and one bag per traveler at the checkpoint.

Updated Security Information as of August 4, 2007

The Transportation Security Administration has issued new procedures concerning passenger screening.

1) Any passenger not possessing a Gov't issued ID will be asked for 2
other forms of Identification before proceeding through checkpoint. If the
individual has no ID TSA will send the Passenger back to the ticket counter
for verification. Children under 17 are exempt.

2) Liquid containers of breast milk or juice for babies may be subjected
to additional screening by ETD swab.

3) Torch lighters are restricted, however common Bic or Zippo lighters are
permitted through screening checkpoint.

4) Selected DVD players must be placed in a bin for screening.

Please refer to the Transportation Security Administration website, www.TSA.gov, for additional information.

3-1-1 for Carry-ons

New Passport Requirements For All Travelers

Beginning Tues.,Jan. 23, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda, will be required to present a valid passport to enter (or re-enter) the United States. This requirement is part of the new Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI).