Charlotte TSA Officials Offer Advice For Travelers

CHARLOTTE, N.C. —  In an effort to assist travelers and expedite the security process, the Transportation Security Administration is providing advice and tips on permissible items for carry-on bags for air travel.

According to TSA, “Thousands of pounds of VAP (Voluntarily abandoned property consisting of prohibited items such as knives and brass knuckles) and HazMat (hazardous materials such as household chemicals) were stopped by Transportation Security Administration officers in Charlotte last year. These items have included stun guns, inert grenades, brass knuckles and martial arts tools. Passengers bringing firearms remains a problem with 13 stopped already this year (53 was the total for all of 2016). Most of the guns were loaded.”

Penalties of up to $11,000 may be levied against travelers who bring impermissible items, whether they are arrested by law enforcement or not.

TSA advises passengers to remember the 3-1-1 rule which includes the following information.

“Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container; must be in 1-quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag is permitted per passenger; and the plastic bag must be taken out of your suitcase and placed into a screening bin. The bag limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring and enables quick screening.”

Passengers should declare any medications, baby formula, or breast milk in excess of 3.4 ounces for inspection at the TSA checkpoint before sending their bag through the x-ray tunnel. These items are permitted, but still must be inspected.

TSA Cares is available at (855) 787-2227, for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions and other special circumstances. Simply call 72 hours prior to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint.