A new regulation is already in effect at several airports in the country. The measure represents a notable change in the security policies in place until now.
Did you know that the rules are changing now for flights in the United States? Well, yes, for weeks now, U.S. authorities have quietly started implementing a change that modifies what passengers can carry in their carry-on luggage. A really good measure for most travelers.
And while we can say that it hasn't been announced with fanfare, the impact is already felt at airports like JFK, Atlanta, and LAX. I mean, some of the largest in the country. At these airports, security checks now incorporate technology that allows for relaxing restrictions that have been in place for over 20 years.
You can now fly with objects or products that were previously not allowed. Computed tomography (CT) scanners, capable of generating high-precision three-dimensional images, are allowing the TSA to relax the rules on liquids. Some passengers have been able to board domestic flights carrying products that until recently were prohibited if they exceeded 100 milliliters.
What liquids can be carried without limit?
Among the products now allowed, without quantity limits, are those on this list, although they are not the only ones:
- Liquid medications, in gel or aerosol, prescription or over-the-counter
- Breast milk and infant formula
- Children's food and drink
- Ice or gel for medical use
- Teething toys with liquid
- Fresh eggs
- Sealed duty-free items
- Biological specimens
- Live fish in water
In fact, the transport of wet batteries and other items that, until recently, caused delays at security checkpoints is also authorized. However, this is just the beginning. The TSA indicated that these changes will be gradual. Although they are already active at several airports across the country, not all have implemented the new rules yet. Therefore, it is recommended to check local regulations before traveling. For international flights, the restrictions remain in effect.
And the shampoo, the sunscreen, and the perfume?
For now, these products remain subject to the old limit of 3.4 ounces (100 ml), but the TSA itself has confirmed that they are considering removing them from the list of restrictions as soon as the new scanners are fully deployed.
If you're one of those who have doubts, we inform you that the free tool myTSA allows you to check what can be brought on board. You can also consult @AskTSA via Twitter or Facebook Messenger.
Faster at the airport
According to the TSA, the new scanners not only improve security but also reduce the number of manual inspections. This speeds up lines and prevents frequent inconveniences for travelers with children, medications, or special needs.
Christopher Murgia, federal security director in Maryland, recommended that passengers “be well aware of the contents of their carry-on luggage and avoid packing at the last minute” to avoid missing the flight due to carelessness.
Goodbye to the small bottles
Liquid restrictions were born after a foiled plot in 2006 that sought to use liquid explosives on board airplanes. Since then, millions of travelers have had to adapt to the 100 ml rule. Now, with the support of technology, the rules are beginning to loosen, although the change will be gradual. This could be the end of the small bottle requirement.
Some travelers celebrate the news. Others still distrust it, perhaps because they feel less secure. But the truth is that, after years of rigidity, flying within the United States could finally become a little less stressful. But for now, it will only be within the United States.
Of course, trips from the United States to Cuba are something else. The General Customs of the Republic has very strict regulations, and a few weeks ago it was announced that they would scrutinize everything coming from the United States.