The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has highlighted security procedures ahead of the holiday travel season offering travelers advice on the steps they can take to be prepared for airport security. Among TSA's concerns: snow globes. TSA says it allows small snow globes in carry-on luggage when packed in a passenger's plastic 3-1-1 bag but warns against larger snow globes.
Over the past year, TSA notes it has implemented a number of new risk-based security measures that impact passengers at airports across the country.
“TSA is committed to ensuring the safety of the traveling public using the latest processes and technologies,” said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole. “Passengers who are prepared for security screening at the checkpoint will help streamline the process for themselves and for other travelers.”
TSA reports it has implemented TSA PreCheck, an expedited prescreening initiative for known travelers and active duty service members at select airports. TSA also notes it has modified procedures for screening passengers 12 and under, 75 and older and airline crewmembers to reduce, although not eliminate, the need for a pat-down.
TSA's Holiday Travel Tips include:
• Remember 3–1–1 for carry-on luggage for non-exempt liquids: 3 ounce bottle or less for all liquids, gels and aerosols; placed in a 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag to hold all small bottles; 1 bag per passenger.
• Do not travel with wrapped packages: In order to determine if the contents of a package are a threat, a security officer may need to unwrap and inspect the item.
• TSA allows small snow globes in carry-on luggage when packed in a passenger's plastic 3-1-1 bag: Snow globes that appear to contain less than 3.4 ounces (approximately tennis-ball size) will be permitted if the entire snow globe, including the base, is able to fit in the same one clear, plastic, quart-sized, re-sealable bag as a passenger’s other liquids.
• Food items such as pies and cakes are permitted, but may require further inspection: If travelers are not sure if a food item is considered a liquid or gel it is best to pack the item in checked baggage or ship it to a destination in advance.
For more travel tips or information on what passengers can and cannot bring through security, TSA urges travelers to go online. Also online are details on TSA's MyTSA mobile app at www.tsa.gov. To contact TSA Cares, a helpline designed to assist travelers with disabilities and medical conditions, call 1-855-787-2227.