More comprehensive screening procedures that have been under testing by the Transportation Security Administration take full effect Saturday, April 14 at airports around the country ahead of the summer travel rush.
The enhanced procedures began last summer and have been phased in since that time. They require travelers to place all personal electronics larger than a cell phone in separate bins for X-ray screening in standard lanes. This includes tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.
According to the TSA, the new procedures will help get clearer X-ray images.
The agency also said travelers may experience some changes in what can be brought through security checkpoints.
Food and liquid items that comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule, electronics, and books continue to be allowed in carry-on baggage, but TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate other items such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine. The TSA said that travelers should organize their carry-on bags and keep them uncluttered to ease the screening process and keep the lines moving.
Items that cannot be identified and resolved at the checkpoint are prohibited from entering the cabin of the aircraft.
It is possible that passengers may experience more bag checks and additional screening of some items with the new procedures. The TSA counters this though by saying it is for their own safety and that officers conduct screening with quicker, more targeted procedures. Travelers with privacy concerns can also request private screening.
The TSA said the new rules do not apply to travelers enrolled in TSA Pre✓®.
