TSA May Ease Liquid Restrictions At US Airports Following End Of Shoe Removal Requirement

Picture this: you’re packing for a weekend trip; you reach for your regular-sized shampoo bottle, and for the first time in nearly 20 years, you might not have to toss it back in the cabinet! The TSA’s strict 3-1-liquid restriction might be getting a relaxation travellers have been waiting for. In a recent speech, US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem hinted at this long-awaited change in airport security protocols.

Liquid Restrictions At US Airports: Relaxation Expected

According to a report by Travel And Tour World, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently hinted that the TSA is considering a major shift in airport security protocols. The headline-maker of this speech was a probable relaxation of liquid restrictions at US airports. While no official change has been announced, Noem’s words signal that the era of ziplocked, tiny toiletries could be behind us.

Wondering why we’ve been doing the 3.4-ounce shuffle for so long at the airports? Here’s your answer: In 2006, authorities foiled a terrorist plot involving liquid explosives smuggled in carry-on bags. It triggered panic and an immediate response from the TSA; and that’s how the 3-1-1 rule got started. The 3-1-1 liquid rule means one can carry up to three 3.4-ounce containers, all packed in a single quart-sized clear bag. 

Since then, shampoo bottles were left behind like forgotten relics at airport checkpoints while travel-sized toiletries turned into must-haves for every flyer.

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The Limitations In The Relaxation

Now there’s a chance you’ll soon get to carry your full-size conditioner on board as a relaxation on liquid restrictions is hinted at! But, the success of this rule currently hinges on technologies available at the Airport security’s disposal. There is a need for specialised scanners that can actually tell harmless liquid from dangerous ones.

The future lies in advanced computed tomography (CT) scanners that provide sharp, 3D images of what’s inside your bag. Some US airports have started using them, and they’re game-changers for the security scene. Earlier this year, the TSA made waves by dropping its long-standing shoe removal policy. Passengers can keep their shoes on now and it was one of those small-but-satisfying wins for travellers. 

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The rollout of any new rule will take time and may be chaotic. Airports won’t all update at the same pace, travellers flying out of New York might have different rules than those in Tulsa. More clarity is expected in the coming months regarding how and when the relaxed rules will be implemented across US airports.

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