Posted: February 16th, 2011 | Author: admin | Filed under: TSA Guidelines | No Comments »
TSA began deploying state-of-the-art advanced imaging technology in 2007. This technology can detect a wide range of threats to transportation security in a matter of seconds to protect passengers and crews. Imaging technology is an integral part of TSA’s effort to continually look for new technologies that help ensure travel remains safe and secure by staying ahead of evolving threats.
TSA uses two types of imaging technology, millimeter wave and backscatter. Currently, there are 486 imaging technology units at 78 airports.
In March 2010, TSA began deploying 450 advanced imaging technology units, which were purchased with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds.
Advanced imaging technology screening is safe for all passengers, and the technology meets national health and safety standards. Learn more about the safety of AIT here.
TSA has implemented strict measures to protect passenger privacy, which is ensured through the anonymity of the image. Additionally, advanced imaging technology screening is optional to all passengers. Learn more about the privacy measures TSA has taken here.
Information found on TSA website. For more details check out their site: www.tsa.gov
Posted: December 8th, 2010 | Author: admin | Filed under: TSA Guidelines | 1 Comment »
What triggers a pat-down?
Pat-downs are used to resolve alarms at the checkpoint, including those triggered by metal detectors and AIT units. Pat-downs are also used when a person opts out of AIT screening in order to detect potentially dangerous and prohibited items. Because pat-downs are specifically used to resolve alarms and prevent dangerous items from going on a plane, the vast majority of passengers will not receive a pat-down at the checkpoint.
What can I do to prevent an alarm at the security checkpoint?
The majority of pat-downs occur when a passenger alarms either the metal detector or the AIT unit. To reduce this circumstance, the most important thing you can do is take everything out of your pockets before you go through screening. Also, when traveling, avoid wearing clothes with a high metal content, and put heavy jewelry on after you go through security.
What do I do during a pat-down?
All passengers have important rights during a pat-down. You have the right to request the pat-down be conducted in a private room and you have the right to have the pat-down witnessed by a person of your choice. All pat-downs are only conducted by same-gender officers. The officer will explain the pat-down process before and during the pat-down. If you have a medical device, please inform the officer.
Will children receive pat-downs?
Transportation Security Officers will work with parents to resolve any alarms at the checkpoint. If required, a child may receive a modified pat-down. Parents are encouraged to ensure their children have taken all items out of their pockets as they go through the security checkpoint.
Information found on TSA website. For more details check out their site: www.tsa.gov
Posted: November 19th, 2010 | Author: admin | Filed under: TSA Guidelines | 2 Comments »
TSA: Prohibited Sharp Items
Box Cutters: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes
Ice Axes/Ice Picks: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes
Knives – except for plastic or round bladed butter knives: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes
Meat Cleavers: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes
Razor-Type Blades – such as box cutters, utility knives, and safety razor blades (disposable razors and their cartridges are permitted): Carry-on: No Checked: Yes
Sabers: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes
Scissors – metal with pointed tips and blades shorter than four inches: Carry-on: Yes Checked: Yes
Swords – cutting or thrusting weapons, including fencing foils: Carry-on: No Checked: Yes
NOTE: Any sharp objects in checked baggage should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.
Posted: October 22nd, 2010 | Author: admin | Filed under: TSA Guidelines | No Comments »
MyTSA has multiple functions, including the following tools:
- Airport Status: Users can see what airports are experiencing general delays (not flight specific) or search for conditions at a specific airport. This information is provided by the FAA.
- ‘Can I Bring?’: Users can type in an item they plan to bring on a trip to find out if it is permitted or prohibited, and whether they can pack it in carry-on or checked bags.
- Guide: Users can get travel tips on an array of some of the most popular topics of air travel, including traveling with children, 3-1-1 rules for liquids, gels and aerosols, special medical needs, packing tips, tips for how to dress for airport security, tips for military members, and traveling with food and gifts.
- Security wait times: MyTSA gives passengers the ability to share their wait time and see what wait times other passengers have posted for U.S. airports.
- Wait Times: Passengers can also post the approximate amount of time it took them to get through security for other travelers to view.
To get MyTSA on your mobile device, type in www.tsa.gov/mobile.
You can find the MyTSA iPhone app on iTunes.
Posted: October 10th, 2010 | Author: admin | Filed under: TSA Guidelines | 1 Comment »
A general guideline you can use for a maximum size carry-on bag is 45 linear inches (the total of the height, width, and depth of the bag). A standard size that fits this requirement is, 22 x 14 x 9”. Anything larger should be checked. If you have a bag that is an unusual shape but still within the total number of inches, you may find it being rejected. Also keep in mind the limitations are going to be different for international flights.