Air travel is now a part of life for the majority of the population. Whether people are flying for business or recreation, there are regulations in place to allow for the safety of all passengers on the flight. While traveling it is always important to be prepared for airport regulations before you even arrive at the airport.
Weight restrictions and the amount of luggage allowed differ for airlines and flight destinations. It is important to contact your airline or travel agent to avoid paying any fees for overweight luggage. When packing luggage, it is important to remember not to wrap any gifts, in case they need to be opened at the checkpoint, and to bring all valuables in your carry-on.
The maximum size for most carry-on luggage is 45 inches; along with a carry-on, passengers are also allowed a laptop bag, purse or camera bag. New flight regulations require that any liquids or gels are no larger than 3 oz. and must be placed in a plastic, zip-top bag to be checked at the security checkpoint.
Any kind of flammable materials, guns, knives, tools, sporting goods, chemicals, self-defense items or otherwise dangerous materials are not allowed to be brought on board the flight in your carry-on. There are some exceptions to checked luggage--you may bring all of the above excluding flammable materials or chemicals. When traveling with special items such as firearms, they must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided case to prevent incident. Persons bringing alcohol on the flight may have sealed bottles under 5 liters and not more than 70 percent alcohol content, otherwise they must be packed in checked luggage.
Before arriving at the airport, your pet should have up-to-date vaccination records and an approved carrier. Pet crates are required to be large enough for the pet to sit and turn around in, and must have a liner and handles. There must be holes for ventilation in the pet's crate but not enough so the animal could stick any appendages out. Airline regulations require the pet owner to give the animal water four hours before the flight. Inclement weather can still prevent a problem for traveling pets if it is deemed too hot or too cold for the pet in cargo.
All prescription and over-the-counter drugs or inhalers are allowed. Walkers, crutches and canes are allowed and will be scanned at the security checkpoint. Passengers are not required to take off any braces, prosthetics or braces while going through security, but they will need to be seen by security. All needed medical devices are allowed and a private screening is always allowed if needed for a certain condition.
