New TSA screening procedures now in effect at local airports
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IDAHO FALLS — Anyone traveling out of the Idaho Falls or surrounding airports should be aware of new Transportation Security Administration screening procedures.
Passengers must now remove all electronic devices larger than a cellphone and place them in a bin before carrying the items onto the plane. Other electronics can be placed in the same bin as long as nothing covers them.
One-quart bags containing 100 ml liquids, gels and aerosols must now be placed in a bin by themselves.
The Department of Homeland Security announced in July these changes would be rolled out throughout the year.
Idaho TSA spokeswoman Lorie Dankers said the changes are meant to improve safety as terrorist groups target commercial aviation and are always looking for ways to smuggle explosive devices in various items.
“TSA constantly evaluates and updates its screening procedures to keep the traveling safe and secure by staying ahead of evolving threats,” Dankers said.
Dankers explained TSA tested new screening procedures over several months to determine what would be the most effective and efficient method for detecting security threats.
Officers found, requiring passengers to remove electronic devices larger than a cell phone and placing them in a separate bin makes the x-ray process move more efficiently. TSA officers don’t have to spend as long studying the x-ray because those items will be clearly visible.
Dankers said travelers need to be aware of the changes because if these items are not removed from their bag, they will have to be re-screened slowing everyone down. If the item is not easily accessible, a traveler may end up showing everyone around the contents of their bag.