As airports nationwide begin to get back on track, many of you may have questions about what new policies are in effect, and how you can make life easier for yourself and security workers if you are traveling in the near future. Read on for more info...
DETAILS ON SECURITY
The Federal Aviation Administration now requires that you have a
photo ID and a printed passenger receipt or paper ticket for travel.
Examples of acceptable identification include a government issued
photo identification card, driver's license or passport.
You will not be allowed to pass the security checkpoint
without the required documents. If you don't have a receipt, contact your airline; they will generally fax or e-mail you another one.
TIPS FOR TRAVEL UNDER INCREASED SECURITY
The airlines have worked closely with the Federal
Aviation Administration to ensure that airport facilities and
aircraft meet all security requirements. New increased security
measures have changed the airport security screening procedures
that travelers have become accustomed to. As you prepare to
travel under heightened security measures, please use the
following checklists to ensure the best travel experience.
- How to Pack
- Getting to the Airport
- Upon Arrival at Airport
- At the Security Checkpoint
- At the Gate
- Onboard the Aircraft
- Upon Arrival at Destination
HOW TO PACK
Airport security screening procedures will be significantly
more stringent than before. Items in your suitcase that may
have passed through before may not be accepted onboard
aircraft today. Examine everything that you normally pack
in your suitcase and evaluate whether an object could be
scrutinized by airport security. (This includes items found
in manicure kits, etc.) Consider removing anything that
could be perceived as threatening, or may raise suspicion
at a security screening checkpoint. No knives of any size
will be accepted. Avoid over-packing so that carry-on
luggage and checked suitcases can be opened and closed with
ease.
GETTING TO THE AIRPORT
Confirm your flight status before proceeding to the airport.
You can do this online at any number of travel websites, or by calling the airline directly. Customers are encouraged to arrive at the airport at least two hours before scheduled departure for
domestic flights, and at least two-and-one-half to three hours before
international flights.
UPON ARRIVAL AT AIRPORT
Aircraft security will be completing thorough sweeps of
airport properties. Expect to see an increased presence of
law enforcement personnel outside and inside the terminal
building. There will be no curb-side or off-airport-premises check-in services.
AT THE SECURITY CHECKPOINT
Access beyond security is now restricted to passengers
and employees only. Have your ticket paperwork available,
along with your photo ID. You will not be permitted past
the security check-in area without these documents. Be
prepared to demonstrate the operation of electronic
equipment such as laptops, cell phones, etc. Be prepared
for increased passenger and baggage-security screening.
AT THE GATE
Maintain your sense of awareness and keep your
possessions with you at all times. Expect to see law-
enforcement personnel and dogs. Keep your ticket
paperwork and identification on hand and readily
available. Expect to see teams of individuals board the
aircraft before general passenger boarding in order to
sweep the aircraft as an added security precaution.
ONBOARD THE AIRCRAFT
Expect to see random searches of service personnel,
flight crews, and equipment. Be patient if your
departure is delayed. Passenger boarding and baggage
loading are being carefully coordinated by the ground
handling crew.
UPON ARRIVAL AT YOUR DESTINATION
Have your luggage receipts available when retrieving luggage for
verification.
$$$ for College