Airborn travel restrictions on liquids in hand luggage could be lifted, according to the DHS secretary's statements.
In a significant development, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has signalled that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is considering changes to the current liquid restrictions for carry-on baggage at airport security checkpoints. The policy, which limits containers of liquids to 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and requires them to be placed in a one-quart resealable plastic bag, has been in place since 2006.
Secretary Noem, during a conference hosted by "The Hill", expressed her intention to *question everything TSA does* and suggested that the liquid size limit may be the "next big announcement." She emphasised that TSA has adopted a *multi-layered screening process* that might allow changes to these restrictions while maintaining safety, without providing precise details or a timeline for implementation.
The current policy was enacted in response to a foiled plot to use liquid explosives smuggled aboard carry-on luggage in 2006. Since then, TSA checkpoints have been the scene of travelers quickly consuming water, discarding larger containers of various items, and debating what constitutes a liquid due to these restrictions.
Secretary Noem envisions a future of airport travel where passengers walk in the door with their carry-on suitcase, walk through a scanner, and go straight to their plane within a minute. However, she cautioned that travelers should not expect the new liquid rules to take effect immediately, as these changes are still under development.
In addition to potential changes to the liquid restrictions, Secretary Noem also mentioned that TSA is working with various companies to pilot new screening technologies at some airports before a nationwide rollout, aiming to make travel both safer and more hospitable.
Currently, yogurt, peanut butter, and jam are examples of items restricted to containers no bigger than 3.4 ounces, as detailed on the TSA's "What can I bring?" list on their website. Bigger containers must go in checked baggage, but there are exceptions for medications and baby formula.
It is important to note that Noem announced on July 8 that travelers are no longer required to take their shoes off while going through screening at airports. This change, while not related to the liquid restrictions, is another step towards enhancing the travel experience for passengers.
As the TSA continues to evaluate and potentially modify its policies, travellers are encouraged to stay informed and check the TSA's website for the latest updates on what they can and cannot bring in their carry-on baggage.
[1] https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/tsa-liquid-rules-changes/index.html [2] https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/08/us/politics/kristi-noem-airport-security-shoes.html [3] https://www.washingtonpost.com/travel/2021/07/08/tsa-shoe-removal-airport-security/ [4] https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2021/07/08/tsa-noem-shoe-removal-airport-security-changes/7902583002/
Secretary Noem indicated a possible alteration of the liquid size limit, potentially being the "next big announcement" from TSA, as she questioned the current practices and suggested the adoption of new technologies and a multi-layered screening process might make air travel safer and more convenient.
In light of potential changes to the liquid restrictions, TSA is also collaborating with companies to pilot new screening technologies at select airports, aiming to create a more hospitable travel experience to passengers nationwide.
