Each passenger is allowed one carry-on and one personal item aboard the aircraft. These items must conform to size guidelines established by the airlines to fit under the seat in front of you or into the overhead bin. Upon arrival at the security checkpoint, all passengers 18 or over are required to submit U.S. federal or state-issued identification to pass through security. Please note, any travel outside of the United States requires a passport. At the onset of screening, bins are provided for your shoes, jacket, belt and the contents of your pockets. Take off your shoes and jacket while waiting in line. Remove your laptop and the quart-sized bag of acceptable liquids from your bag for separate screening. You are required to walk through a metal detector. You may request a private screening or a Transportation Security Officer may require a visual screening at any time. Upon clearance from security, collect your belongings and proceed to the departure gate.
Prohibited items for air travel security fall into several categories. Sharp objects like knives, ice picks and box cutters; sporting goods comprising baseball bats, hockey sticks and skis or poles; any guns or items resembling guns, tools longer than seven inches in length, any martial arts or self-defense items; explosives, flammables, debilitating chemicals, compressed gas cylinders, gels or aerosols are not permitted in carry-on baggage. Each passenger may carry on nonflammable liquids, gels and aerosols including alcoholic beverages in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml), packed in a clear, one-quart zipper top bag, one bag to a passenger. Pack any larger containers in checked luggage. You may pack even most prohibited items in checked baggage, excluding explosive materials such as fireworks, flammable items like lighter fluid and chemicals including liquid bleach and spray paint.
Do carry special items, consisting of batteries, matches (one pack of the safety type) and undeveloped film, which is harmed by x-rays, onto an aircraft. Camping, hunting, fishing and sporting equipment including paintball and scuba equipment must follow guidelines for size, as well as not fall into the prohibited category. Parachutes and musical instruments are subject to screening, whether as checked or carry-on items. As the responsible passenger, you are required to be in attendance at this screening. Factor in additional time for special items.
You may take service animals and pets through airline checkpoints. The TSA recommends you notify the security officer, whether the animal is a pet or in service. Remove your pet from its carrying case and hold the pet through the metal detector. All prescription medications, medical supplies and related equipment for ill or disabled persons are permitted under air travel guidelines. Notify the Transportation Security Officer either verbally or in writing of any special needs or considerations required for screening.
