TSA Rules & Regulations for International Flights

The United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was created after the tragedy of September 11, 2001, as part of the Department of Homeland Security. It oversees the security of the transportation systems. Each year more than 700 million travelers are checked through airport security. In order to make the trips as safe as possible and as easy as possible for travelers, the TSA has implemented some changes for checkpoint about carrying liquids, taking off shoes,and showing ID.

Identification

One of the new changes that TSA hopes to have implemented by the beginning of 2010 deals with identification. Airlines are starting to ask for your birth date and gender when you book a flight. You will also need to let them know your full name as it appears on your driver's license or other form of identification that you are using. When this regulation is fully implemented, your name with or without initial, or your full name--for example, "James" versus "Jim"--will have to be the same on the ID and ticket. You may also need to change your credit cards if the name is different on them than what you are using for your tickets. Also, when you go through the security checkpoint, carry your boarding pass and ID. Identification is not required for children up until the age of 18.

Liquids, Gels, Aerosols

There are specific rules to follow for the liquids, gels and aerosols you put in your carry-on bags. There are exceptions for medicines, liquids for disabled or ill individuals, life-support liquids, and baby bottles with milk or formula. Each of these items has to be no greater than 3 oz. If you have a larger item, such as a 6-oz. rolled-up tube of Vaseline, it will not be permitted. Put larger containers into your checked baggage. All items must be put in a quart-size clear plastic bag with a zip top. You cannot use a larger bag, such as the gallon size or a fold-over instead of the zip top. You can only have one bag. When you go through the checkpoint, take out your bag and put it into the bin or on the belt to be x-rayed.

Check Point

You will be asked to take off your shoes, overcoats and jackets. These must be x-rayed. If you do not want to walk without shoes, you can ask for booties. Since there are some times when these booties run out, especially in the summer, it is best to bring a pair of your own.

Electronics

Security is also going to be concerned about your electronics. If you are carrying any smaller electronics at check-in, such as a cell phone, place it in your carry-on bag for easy x-raying. If you have a larger item, such as a laptop, camera and/or video camera, take it out of the case and put it in the bin.

Children or Disabled with Escort

Choose the family lane at the checkpoint if you are traveling with a younger child. Each of your children, regardless of age, will have to be screened--even infants. If a child can walk, have him go through the metal detector alone. All of the strollers and other children's equipment have to go through x-ray or be inspected. If your child is going on a trip alone, you can get a pass to accompany him to the boarding area.
If you need to be taken to the boarding area by a companion in a wheelchair or for assistance with walking, call before the trip and get a pass.

Banned Items

Be sure to check your carry-on bags and remove the following: anything sharp, tools, any item for sports, weapons, items for self-defense and materials that are explosive and flammable.