What Locks Are Approved for Airline Travel?

TSA-approved locks have symbols to denote their approval.

Many airline passengers wish to place locks on their checked baggage, however not all locks are approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Choosing an approved lock to be placed on luggage helps ensure that all bags will remained securely locked.

Function

The TSA requires that all checked baggage pass through a security scan before being placed on the airplane. In rare instances, bags must be inspected by hand and TSA officers must have entry access to the luggage. Approved locks work with TSA officers' master keys and prevent the locks from having to be cut.

Types

Both Travel Sentry and Safe Skies Luggage Locks are listed on the TSA website as approved locks for air travel. Travel Sentry locks are denoted by a red diamond icon, while Safe Skies Luggage Locks are identified by a red torch icon that is placed on each lock.

Considerations

TSA-approved locks are available for purchase at many retailers both in stores and online. While non-approved locks may be used to secure luggage, their use may result in a cut lock and a bag that remains unlocked for the rest of the air travel, as TSA officers are unable to re-secure locks that have been cut.

References

• Transportation Security Administration: Air Travel-TSA Recognized Baggage Locks

Resources

• Safe Skies Patented Luggage Locks
• Travel Sentry