Air Terror Plot Causes Security Delays, New Restrictions for Travelers

In the wake of this morning's announcement by U.K. authorities that they foiled an alleged terrorist plot to blow up 10 planes en-route from the U.K. to the U.S. using hand luggage, travel agents are being advised to warn clients of new, temporary airplane restrictions. Among the requirements issued by the Department of Homeland Security, airplane passengers will be required to check all bags and should expect security delays. DHS raised the U.S.' security threat level to Red, or Severe, for commercial flights originating in the U.K. bound for the U.S. For all other commercial aviation operating in or destined for the U.S., the threat level was raised to Orange, or high. DHS also prohibited all liquid-based substances from being carried on an airplane and implemented additional security measures within the airport and at screening checkpoints. ASTA recommends travelers should be advised to pack all liquid-based substances, such as hair gel, lotion, shampoo, cream, contact lens solution and toothpaste, in their checked baggage, and to finish all beverages before proceeding to security. The exceptions are: baby formula, breast milk, or juice if a baby or small child is traveling; prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket; and insulin and essential other non-prescription medicine. As of Thursday, DHS has provided no indication of when, or if, these measures would be rescinded. Details can be found at [www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/threat-change.shtm].