Security Measures for Travel from or within the U.S.

Last Updated: November 9, 2006, 8am EDT

The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security has determined that there is a high risk of terrorism against U.S. civil aviation, and the need for extra restrictions to assure the security of air travel.

New Security Measures

In order to address the higher risk, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented the following new security measures until further notice.

No liquids, gels, or aerosols of any size are permitted to enter the sterile area through the screening checkpoint or be in accessible property or on your person except:

One clear transparent resealable 1 quart-/liter-size plastic bag (slightly larger than a sandwich bag) containing liquids, gels, and/or aerosols in containers of 3 oz. (90ml) capacity or less per container. The contents of the plastic bag must fit comfortably and the plastic bag must be completely closed/sealed and subjected to x-ray inspection separate from the passenger’s carry-on bag.

Additional screening immediately prior to boarding the aircraft is required if these conditions are not met, or if you interact with passengers who don't meet these requirements.

You may also have the items below, but you must declare them to the TSA at the security screening checkpoint if they are not contained in the plastic bag described above.

• Baby formula, breast milk, or baby food in small containers if a baby or small child is traveling
• Medication (liquid, gel, and aerosol)
• Necessary liquids or gels (including insulin and juice) for diabetic passengers

You may be subjected to secondary screening if you choose to enter the screening checkpoint with liquids, gels, and/or aerosols on your person or in your carry-on bag. Also, you will be allowed to bring liquids, gels, or aerosols purchased after passing through the security checkpoint, including duty free items, onboard the aircraft.

Examples of liquids, gels, and aerosols included in these security measures:

• Beverages
• Shampoo
• Suntan lotion
• Creams
• Toothpaste
• Hair gel
• Hair spray
• Liquid cosmetics
• Other items of similar consistency

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Other Travel Tips

Here are some more suggestions to help minimize your inconvenience:

• Travel light—minimal clutter will expedite the screening process.
• Check all of your bags.
• See Check-in Requirements for info about when to arrive at the airport.
• Store any prohibited duty-free items you have purchased onboard or in the airport in your checked bags before you recheck them following your customs clearance at your gateway city. (Unfortunately, we cannot assume any liability for damage to your duty-free items or other items damaged as a result of breakage or leakage of prohibited duty-free items.)
• After exiting the United States you may not have access to your checked baggage for ongoing connections. Any prohibited duty-free items that you are unable to store in checked baggage will be subject to confiscation.

We'll do everything we can to give you the information you'll need during this heightened-security period. Check back here for updates.

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