Security Screening Tips for Travelers

The Transportation Security Agency (TSA) has a long list of items besides guns and knives that cannot be taken on aircraft. Some of them sound innocuous and are easily overlooked.

The Task Force encourages all travelers to check the TSA's web site by clicking here - http://www.tsa.gov/public/display?theme=1 to check the list of banned items and for tips to help you get through the screening process quicker. Please take the time to review the information as it will ease your trip through the Airport.

TSA screeners nationwide intercept over a half a million prohibited items each month, including more than 40 firearms, lengthening the process at the security checkpoint for all passengers. Firearms and large knives are prohibited at the passenger checkpoint. Pocketknives, pointed scissors, self-defense sprays and other potential weapons are also not allowed in the aircraft cabin; they should be placed in checked bags or left at home. This would cut screening time overall by 20%, leading to fewer screening delays for all travelers.

TSA's goal at Washington Dulles is to screen all passengers in an average of less than 10 minutes. Most passengers should be screened in well under 10 minutes, but the agency notes that it could take 30 minutes occasionally during the morning and afternoon peaks.

The Task Force has worked with the Airports Authority, the airlines and the Congressional delegation in an effort to ensure that the TSA team at Dulles has adequate resources to match projected passenger growth.