Airport Security

Information about Airport Security

If you haven’t been on an airplane recently (and even if you have), it is important you read this refresher on airport guidelines and etiquette. A whopping majority of tourists to Florida arrive via airplane - and lot has changed in the past couple years, so the more informed you are, the less stressful airports will be.

Airport security used to be in control of that particular airport; now all airport security has been federalized. A good rule of thumb is that for domestic flights, arrive one hour before departure time and for international flights, arrive two hours before departure time. If you are running late, tell an airline employee! Most airlines are good about accommodating people who are running late…but if you don’t let your situation be known, you may miss your flight.

It is critical that you bring a current, government issued photo ID with you. Children under 18 do not need government issued ID for domestic flights (although if your kid has a drivers license, they may want to show it off), but for international flights, a passport is required. Some good forms of identification include driver’s license or passports.

To speed up the check-in process, use an electronic kiosk that is provided by almost all airlines. If you booked the reservation with your credit card, bring that for verification; otherwise, just be aware of how to spell your name. These kiosks are easy and there is always an employee to assist you. When you print your boarding pass off of this kiosk, just proceed through security with your boarding pass and photo ID.

Airport Security is of primary concern for the airports and airlines – this being said, there are strict regulations that will not be bent or broken for anyone. If you fail to be cooperative with authorities, it may result in you missing your flight at the least, or being detained at the very worst. With patience and cooperation, you will be at your gate in no time. If you have a disability, tell an airline employee. They will provide a wheelchair or accommodate you in the best way possible.

Some rules of thumb to get through airport security quicker: don’t wear any bulky metal objects (metallic body parts can be easily explained with a doctors note), don’t bring any opened beverages (you will have to throw them away), don’t try to bring anything sharp (no knives or most tweezers), and don’t bring anything flammable (lighters, matches, butane). Keep all liquids, gels, and sprays under 3oz., or you will have to throw them away. This one always takes people by surprise - it may not be “fair” that you must throw away your perfectly good hair gel (as what happened to us), but 3oz. is the rule. After our experiences, we recommend going to a local drugstore and purchasing travel size commodities, or decanting your commodities into a generic 3oz. container. Place all of your 3oz. liquids in one plastic bag, which will undoubtedly be inspected separately. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) has a running list of banned items – save yourself the hassle and don’t pack anything on this list unless you plan to check it. You can view their list at this website .

Every domestic traveler is entitled to one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a laptop case, purse, briefcase, or backpack. Airlines have their own rules as to what dimensions constitute as carry-on size, so check with them. Checked luggage may be opened and inspected by hand – so don’t barricade your luggage. It could raise suspicion, and you may end up with a broken lock tucked in your bag. If you feel more secure with a lock on your suitcase, you can visit this website to purchase a TSA approved lock that can easily be opened and relocked in the event of a search. It is also a good idea to fill out the information card that comes with your luggage – your name, address, phone number, etc. In the event of luggage being misplaced, this will help the airline return it to you quicker. Hang on to the checked luggage stub you receive – this will also aid the airlines in the event of misplaced luggage.

We hope that these tips provide you with a good understanding of airport security and politics. Remember, you are going on vacation, so relax! Just follow the guidelines set forth by the TSA and your airline and you will have no problem beginning your fantastic trip!




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