In the wake of the December 25, 2009 attempted terrorist attack on Northwest Airlines flight 253, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has changed some of its airport security rules and procedures. Change is never easy, but our tips will help you prepare for your flight and adjust to last-minute modifications to security procedures.
Before Your Trip
- Resist the urge to overpack your carry-on bag, even if you are trying to avoid checked bag fees. If your carry-on bag is searched, you may have to replace every item the security screener takes out. This will take time – perhaps too much time – if your bag is stuffed to the brim. It's far better to pack wisely, taking only the items you'll really need.
- Leave room in your carry-on bag for your laptop, purse or other personal item. TSA rules can – and do – change without notice. If you leave extra space in your carry-on bag, you won't be caught short if your allowance is reduced halfway through your trip.
- Pack earplugs, a sleep mask and neck pillow so you can rest (and hopefully sleep) during the last hour of your flight.
- Tuck a book or magazine into your carry-on bag, just in case you are not allowed to use electronic devices during all or part of your flight.
- Get the latest news before you head to the airport. Call your airline or check online for updates and changes to airport security rules.
At the Airport
- Allow extra time to go through airport security. Airline and government officials in the U.S. and Canada suggest arriving at the airport at least three hours before your scheduled flight time. Give yourself even more time if you need to return a rental car or park at the airport.
- Be patient and flexible. You are one of many airline passengers who must go through the airport security screening process, whether you wish to or not. Cooperate graciously; let someone else win the Angry Passenger Award for the day.
- Know what to expect. You may see armed law enforcement officials, police dogs or other security personnel at the airport. Security screeners may require a pat-down screening. Airport security staffers may thoroughly inspect your carry-on bag, coat and other personal items.
- Understand your rights. You can ask for a same-sex TSA screener to conduct your pat-down screening. If you need to show the screener a medical device or prosthetic limb, you can ask to do so in private. You can still bring medical supplies and prescription drugs with you on your flight.
- Take advantage of airport facilities before your flight. Use the restroom. Walk your dog in the airport's pet area. Check your email. Make phone calls. Save your reading materials for the flight itself.
During Your Flight
- Follow the rules. Flight attendants know that travelers don't like last-minute changes. They'll have plenty to cope with, just making announcements about new TSA policies and answering questions. Flight attendants do not have to put up with uncooperative passengers; they can have you put off the plane if you don't comply with in-flight regulations.
- Know your flight's duration. If your flight is three hours long, get up and use the restroom about one and one-half hours into your flight. That way, you won't run the risk of needing to get out of your seat during the last hour of flight. If you have a medical condition that might cause you to need to use the restroom during the final in-flight hour, discuss your concerns with a flight attendant.
- Put away your personal items when asked to do so. Yes, you'll have to sit quietly in your seat, but that's why you brought your neck pillow and sleep mask. Relax during those last minutes of your flight. Review your itinerary, think through a list of places you'd like to visit at your destination, meditate or chat with other passengers. The flight will be over before you know it.
