TSA places stricter screening for carry-on electronics

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be implementing new procedures for any flights originating from, going to, or flying within the Unites States. You’ll have to place all electronics “larger than a cellphone” into separate bins for X-ray screening.

The TSA says this new procedure allows its agents to get clearer x-ray images. Without a doubt, this will cause longer lines and more frequent bag checks, at least in the beginning stages of the rollout. After all, the TSA says it has followed “extensive testing and successful pilots at 10 airports”. So we can only hope it doesn’t make security checkpoints too much more complicated.

With the new measures, you’ll have to take out iPads, tablets, gaming consoles, DSLRs, and “any electronic larger than a cellphone”. These new security procedures, however, don’t change any of what is allowed through security, “…food and liquid items that comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule, electronics, and books continue to be allowed in carry-on bags”.

If you do travel often, you should consider signing up for TSA Pre-Check. It lets you pass through security in a designated lane, without needing to take off shoes, light jackets, or removing electronics out of your bags. In fact, the new guidelines explicitly apply to those who are going through the standard security lanes and not TSA Pre-Check.

Signing up for TSA Pre-Check is $85 for five years and takes a 10 minute background check (interview) and fingerprint session, a no-brainer for frequent travelers.

Source | Via