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Transportation Security Administration
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Before you board any U.S. flight, TSA must approve you for travel. To reduce your wait time at the TSA security checkpoint:
• Do not pack or bring prohibited items to the airport. Learn about permitted and prohibited items, including liquids, gels and aerosols, on the TSA website, www.tsa.gov.
• Liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on luggage must follow 3-1-1 guidelines: 3-ounce (100 ml) or smaller containers, placed in a 1 quart (1 liter) clear Retur plastic bag, and 1 bag per passenger placed in the airport's plastic bin for screening.
• Put jewelry, cash, computers, and other valuables in your carry-on baggage. Tape your business card or identifying information to your laptop.
• Place the following items in your carry-on baggage or be prepared to remove them as you enter the security checkpoint: mobile phones, keys, coins, money clips, hand-held electronics, large amounts of jewelry, metal hair decorations, and large belt buckles.
• Put all undeveloped film and cameras with film in your carry-on baggage. Checked baggage screening equipment may damage undeveloped film.
• Be aware of what you wear to the airport. Clothing, jewelry and accessories that contain metal may set off the alarm on the metal detector.
• You will need to remove your shoes and put them through the X-ray machine.
• If you wish to lock your baggage, use a TSA-recognized lock. See http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/ airtravel/assistant/locks.shtm for more information.
• Do not pack wrapped gifts and do not bring wrapped gifts to the checkpoint, as TSA may have to unwrap packages for security reasons
• Take computers and video cameras with cassettes out of their cases and place them in a bin provided at the checkpoint to go through the X-ray machine separately.
• Remove all outer coats, suit coats, jackets and blazers and place them on the belt to be X-rayed.
• Do not overstuff checked baggage. If TSA screeners must open your checked bag for inspection, they must be able to easily close your bag afterwards.
At the airport, keep your airline boarding pass available until exiting the security checkpoint. The absence of proper identification will result in additional screening and delays.