TSA Provides Updates to Travelers for the Holiday Travel Season

November 14, 2012

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today highlighted security procedures ahead of the busy holiday travel period and reminded travelers about the steps they can take to be prepared for airport security. Over the past year, TSA has implemented a number of new risk-based security measures that enhance the passenger experience 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 has implemented TSA Pre✓™, an expedited prescreening initiative for known travelers and active duty service members at select airports, and 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.

Holiday Travel Tips

• 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.
• TSA recommends that passengers 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, click here to use the MyTSA mobile app. To contact TSA Cares, a helpline designed to assist travelers with disabilities and medical conditions, call 1-855-787-2227.