Airport Security: TSA Makes Changes to Screening Procedures for Carry-ons by Eirene Heidelberger

For travelers not part of the TSA Pre-Check program, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced an update to its screening process of airline passengers in the upcoming weeks ahead to implement new, stronger screening procedures for carry-on items. The TSA will require travelers to place all electronics larger than a cell phone in bins for X-ray screening.

As new procedures are phased in, TSA officers will begin to ask travelers to remove electronics larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bags and place them in a bin with nothing on top or below, similar to how laptops have been screened for years. By separating personal electronic items such as laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles for screening, TSA officers can more closely focus on resolving alarms and stopping terror by obtaining clearer X-ray images.

There are no changes to what travelers can bring through the checkpoint; food and liquid items that comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule, electronics and books continue to be allowed in carry-on bags. The stronger security measures do not apply to passengers enrolled in TSA Pre✓® who are using TSA Pre✓ lanes.