Many changes have taken place at our airports recently. Below are
some guidelines from the FAA to help you get to your destination as
smoothly as possible.
Before You Leave
When you are preparing for your trip, remember to pack smart, and pack
safe. If you are in doubt about any item, don't pack it, you may
risk having the item confiscated. Travelers and their bags may be subjected to additional screening
at any time.
Remember that travelers are limited to one carry-on bag and one
personal item, such as a purse or briefcase. Be aware that
electronic items, such as laptop computers and cell phones may be
subjected to additional screening. Have your laptop setup so that it
can be removed from its travel case so that it can be X-rayed separately.
To make security check points flow smoother, limit the amount of metal
objects that are worn, and carried in pockets.
Allow Extra Time
Arrive early. Heightened airport security measures increase the time needed to
check in. Arriving at the airport two hours before your flight’s scheduled departure is
advisable, however, passengers may want to consult with their airline for more
specific arrival times. Build in even more time at the airport if traveling with young children,
infants, or persons with disabilities.
Consider taking public transportation to the airport, if possible. Parking and curbside
access will be controlled and limited.
Curbside check-in is available only at specific locations. Contact your airline to see if it is
available for your flight.
Do not leave your car unattended in front of the terminal. Security measures dictate that unattended cars will be towed.
At the Airport
Watch your bags and personal belongings at all times.
Do not accept packages from strangers.
If you see unattended bags or packages anywhere in the airport terminal or parking
area, immediately report them to a security officer or other authority.
Report any suspicious activities or individuals in the airport or parking lot to airport security.
Don't joke about having a bomb or firearm.
Don't discuss terrorism, weapons, explosives, or other threats while going through the security checkpoint. The mere mention of words such as "gun," "bomb," etc., can compel security personnel to detain and question you. They are trained to consider these comments as real threats.
Only ticketed passengers are allowed beyond the screener checkpoints, unless a passenger requires parental oversight or must be accompanied by a medical assistant.
Checking In
Adult passengers must bring a government-issued photo ID. The FAA requires that air
carriers request government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or draft card, if
the passenger appears old enough to have an ID. If a government-issued photo ID is not
available, bring two pieces of ID, one of which must be from a governmental
authority.
E-ticket travelers should check with their airline to make sure they have proper
documentation.
Automated kiosks are available for airlines that have appropriate security measures in
place. Travelers interested in this option should check with their airlines.
Be prepared to answer questions about your bags. When asked who packed your bags and
if you might have left them unattended at anytime, think carefully and answer the questions
honestly. Criminals may use unsuspecting passengers to carry bombs or other dangerous
items onto aircraft.
Be cooperative as screeners ask to hand-search your bags. Security personnel will search a bag if the x-ray scan cannot determine its contents.
On the Airplane
Listen carefully to the flight attendant’s safety instructions. Note where the closest exit to
your seat is located.
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