Travelers may soon carry more liquid in their carry-on luggage, as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem considers revising the current TSA guidelines.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced potential changes to airport security procedures, particularly concerning the current restrictions on liquid amounts travelers can bring in their carry-on luggage.
Speaking at a conference hosted by “The Hill” on Wednesday, Noem expressed her willingness to review current Transportation Security Administration (TSA) practices. She mentioned the possibility of altering the size restrictions for liquids in carry-on bags, although no specific details or timelines were provided.
Present TSA regulations allow travelers to carry liquids in travel-sized containers, each no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). These containers must fit into a one-quart, resealable plastic bag. Larger bottles are only permissible in checked luggage, with exceptions made for medications and baby formula.
The current rules for liquids have been in place since 2006, instated to prevent incidents similar to a thwarted plot in the same year where liquid explosives were almost smuggled onto planes. This guidance has led to a usual scene at TSA checkpoints where passengers often discard or hastily consume beverages and other liquid items that exceed the size limit.
Noem’s consideration for changes comes shortly after her announcement on July 8 that passengers would no longer be required to remove their shoes during security screenings. This aspect of the security process was revised following a successful pilot program indicating that TSA had the necessary equipment to ensure safety without the need for shoe removal. This policy had been enforced since the 2006 implementation, a response to the “shoe bomber” Richard Reid’s attempt in late 2001 to bring down a flight from Paris to Miami.
In addition to discussing liquid restrictions, Noem shared her broader vision for the future of airport travel, ultimately aiming for a streamlined entry process. “Hopefully, the future of an airport,” she said, “is that you walk in the door with your carry-on suitcase, you walk through a scanner, and go right to your plane. It takes you one minute.”
The TSA currently maintains a comprehensive list on its website detailing what constitutes a liquid. Items such as yogurt, peanut butter, jam, and jelly are all subject to the 3.4-ounce rule. Discussions often arise over these definitions as travelers navigate what they can and cannot bring through security.
These proposed changes reflect ongoing adjustments within Homeland Security to adapt to evolving threats while striving to improve the travel experience, according to The Associated Press.
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