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As you know, changes in security
screening at our nation's airports and around the world have been instituted
as a result of the alleged terror plot against U.S.-bound flights out of London. The attackers
had planned to use a red gel-like explosive hidden in sports drink bottles,
to which the U.S. Transportation Administration (TSA) and British authorities
responded by banning all forms of liquid or gel carried onto planes, with the
exception of baby formula and prescription medications in the name of the
passenger. On Sunday the TSA updated its liquid and gel ban to allow for
lipstick and small amounts (up to 8 oz.) of liquid
or gel low blood sugar treatment and up to 4 oz. of non-prescription liquid medications such as eye drops.
Also, removal of shoes, formerly
discretionary, is now mandatory -- and if you're sporting gel inserts, save
yourself some security line time and either pack them in checked luggage or
leave them at home. Shoes constructed with gel heels are permitted, but must
be removed for screening. To avoid delays, the TSA recommends that passengers
pack all liquids and gels, including shampoo, toothpaste, perfume, hair gel
and suntan lotion in checked luggage.
 As
of Monday, the U.K.
dropped its terror alert level from "critical" to
"severe," and is once again permitting one carry-on per passenger,
measuring approximately the size of a small laptop or backpack. Click here for more
information from the U.K. Home Office. Traffic in and out of Heathrow has
been cut back approximately 30 percent, so it is still a good idea to contact
your Azumano agent or airline if you are traveling through London.
The
alleged plot also involved assembling the explosives onboard using components
from electronic devices such as digital cameras. The good news for now is
that electronic devices such as iPods, pocket PCs and most importantly
laptops are still allowed onboard. For more information on the changes in
airport security measures, visit www.tsa.gov.
Additionally, you can register on the
TSA Web site's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) area to receive e-mail
notification should the answer to a question be updated at any time. Visit www.tsa.gov and click on
"Frequently Asked Questions" in the upper right-hand corner of the
page, then click on "Help" for instructions.
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