Tips for Air Travelers
Many changes have taken place at our airports recently. Below are some guidelines from the FAA to help you get to your destination as smoothly as possible.
Before You Leave
- When you are preparing for your trip, remember to pack smart, and pack safe. If you are in doubt about any item, don’t pack it, you may risk having the item confiscated. Travelers and their bags may be subjected to additional screening at any time.
- Remember that travelers are limited to one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or briefcase. Be aware that electronic items, such as laptop computers and cell phones may be subjected to additional screening. Have your laptop setup so that it can be removed from its travel case so that it can be X-rayed separately.
- To make security check points flow smoother, limit the amount of metal objects that are worn, and carried in pockets.
Allow Extra Time
- Arrive early. Heightened airport security measures increase the time needed to check in. Arriving at the airport two hours before your flight’s scheduled departure is advisable, however, passengers may want to consult with their airline for more specific arrival times. Build in even more time at the airport if traveling with young children, infants, or persons with disabilities.
- Consider taking public transportation to the airport, if possible. Parking and curbside access will be controlled and limited.
- Curbside check-in is available only at specific locations. Contact your airline to see if it is available for your flight.
- Do not leave your car unattended in front of the terminal. Security measures dictate that unattended cars will be towed.
At the Airport
- Watch your bags and personal belongings at all times.
- Do not accept packages from strangers.
- If you see unattended bags or packages anywhere in the airport terminal or parking area, immediately report them to a security officer or other authority.
- Report any suspicious activities or individuals in the airport or parking lot to airport security. Don’t joke about having a bomb or firearm.
- Don’t discuss terrorism, weapons, explosives, or other threats while going through the security checkpoint. The mere mention of words such as “gun,” “bomb,” etc., can compel security personnel to detain and question you. They are trained to consider these comments as real threats.
- Only ticketed passengers are allowed beyond the screener checkpoints, unless a passenger requires parental oversight or must be accompanied by a medical assistant.
Checking In
- Adult passengers must bring a government-issued photo ID. The FAA requires that air carriers request government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or draft card, if the passenger appears old enough to have an ID. If a government-issued photo ID is not available, bring two pieces of ID, one of which must be from a governmental authority.
- E-ticket travelers should check with their airline to make sure they have proper documentation.
- Automated kiosks are available for airlines that have appropriate security measures in place. Travelers interested in this option should check with their airlines.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your bags. When asked who packed your bags and if you might have left them unattended at anytime, think carefully and answer the questions honestly. Criminals may use unsuspecting passengers to carry bombs or other dangerous items onto aircraft.
- Be cooperative as screeners ask to hand-search your bags. Security personnel will search a bag if the x-ray scan cannot determine its contents.
On the Airplane
- Listen carefully to the flight attendant’s safety instructions. Note where the closest exit to your seat is located.
- Wear your seat belt.
- Report unattended items to your flight attendant.
Information compiled from the Federal Aviation Administration.
