The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is implementing new, stronger screening procedures for carry-on items that require travelers to place all electronics larger than a cell phone in bins for x-ray screening in standard lanes.
Following extensive testing and successful pilots at 10 airports, TSA now plans to expand these measures to all US airports.
TSA acting administrator Huban Gowadia said, “Whether you’re flying to, from, or within the USA, TSA is committed to raising the baseline for aviation security by strengthening the overall security of our commercial aviation network to keep flying as a safe option for everyone.
“It is critical for TSA to constantly enhance and adjust security screening procedures to stay ahead of evolving threats and keep passengers safe. By separating personal electronic items such as laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles for screening, TSA officers can more closely focus on resolving alarms and stopping terror threats.”
In standard screening lanes, TSA officers will be stationed in front of the checkpoint x-ray machines to guide passengers through the screening process and recommend how best to arrange their carry-on items for x-ray screening. Travelers are encouraged to organize their carry-on bags and keep them uncluttered to ease the screening process and keep the lines moving.
There are no changes to what travelers can bring through the checkpoint; food and liquid items that comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule, electronics, and books continue to be allowed in carry-on bags.
As new procedures are phased in, TSA officers will begin to ask travelers to remove electronics larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bags and place them in a bin with nothing on top or below, similar to how laptops have been screened for years. This simple step helps TSA officers obtain a clearer x-ray image.
The new process is already in place at the following airports: Boise Airport (BOI), Colorado Springs Airport (COS), Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Logan International Airport (BOS), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport (LBB), Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), McCarran International Airport (LAS), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
The stronger security measures do not apply to passengers enrolled in TSA Pre who are using TSA Pre lanes.