Updated Security Proceedures for U.S. and U.K Airports
Topic: Breaking Travel NewsPosted: August 14, 2006United States Airport Security Procedures
US Threat Level: The threat level was lowered from red or severe to orange or high for in-bound flights from the UK. The threat level remains at ORANGE for all domestic and international flights operating in or out of the United States.
US Security Procedures - Update: On August 14, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) revised its airport security procedures for travelers in the United States. The highlighted items are TSA's most recent changes.
- Pack all liquid-based substances, such as hair gel, lotion, shampoo, cream, non-prescription liquids (e.g. contact lens solution, eye drops, etc.), aerosols and toothpaste in your checked baggage. (Solid lipstick permitted).
- Finish all liquid refreshments (e.g. water, soda, etc.) before proceeding to security. If the refreshment is purchased after the initial security screening, it must be finished or left behind prior to boarding the plane.
- Acceptable liquids include: 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; insulin and low-blood sugar treatments including glucose gel; up to four ounces of non-prescription medicine.
- Mandatory shoe removal and screening required for all passengers.
- Details can be found at: http://www.tsa.gov/ press/releases/2006/press_release_08132006.shtm.
United Kingdom's New Security Procedures
UK Threat Level: Downgraded from CRITICAL to SEVERE.
UK Security Procedures (Aug. 14, 2006):
- ONE carry-on bag/purse/item is allowed (effective August 15 for Heathrow/Gatwick). Please note the dimensions of this item are much smaller than the typical carry-on roller bag. The item must not exceed 17.7"x 13.7"x6.2" (45 cm, width of 35 cm and depth of 16 cm), including wheels, handles, side pockets etc. All items carried by passengers will be X-ray screened.
- Electronic devices are allowed. Laptops and large electrical items (e.g. large hairdryer) must be removed from the bag and placed in a tray so that such items neither obscure nor are obscured by the bag.
- No liquids of any type are permitted. Permitted items include: essential medicines in liquid form sufficient and essential for the flight (e.g. diabetic kit), baby milk and liquid baby food (the contents of each bottle or jar must be tasted by the accompanying passenger). The definition of liquids includes gels, lotions, liquid/solid mixtures and aerosols.
- Secondary screening for US bound passengers. Passengers boarding flights to the United States and items they are carrying, including those acquired after the initial security screening, will be subjected to a secondary search at the gate. Any liquids discovered will be removed from the passenger.
- Details can be found at: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/about-us/news/baggage-advice1.