What is TSA’s policy if a passenger comes to the screening checkpoint with travel-size containers not packaged in one quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag?
All containers not packaged in one quart-size or less, clear plastic, zip-top bag and not declared as an exempt item will be denied access past the screening checkpoint.
What is TSA’s policy if a passenger comes to the screening checkpoint with multiple clear plastic, quart-size zip-top bags?
Only one quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag with 3-ounce or less containers comfortably fitting in the bag will be permitted through the screening checkpoint.
How will a Transportation Security Officer determine the size of the containers, i.e., one quart-size plastic bags and 3-ounce containers?
Our Security Officers will be checking the clear plastic zip-top bags to ensure they are quart-size or less. When they observe containers over 3 ounces or if the total number of containers do not comfortably fit in the bag, our Security Officers will advise the passenger/owner of the bag that they will not be permitted through the passenger screening checkpoint.
If an item in the plastic bag is clearly larger than 3 ounces, must only the large item be removed or must all items in the bag be removed?
If the larger item was not declared, it must be removed. Such items may be transported in checked baggage or otherwise disposed. The other items may be permitted if the items fit comfortably in one quart-size clear plastic bag and the plastic bag can be sealed.
Do prescription and non-prescription medications have to be packaged in a quart-size clear plastic, zip-top bag?
No. Medications (prescription medicines and over-the-counter medicinal products, i.e. Tylenol®, Pepto-Bismol®, ointments, etc.) that come in liquid, gel, and/or aerosol form in containers greater than 3 ounce must be declared at the screening checkpoint, but do not have to be packaged in a quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag. If the medications are in containers of 3 ounces or less, they may also be included in the quart-size zip-top bag with other items – as long as it all comfortably fits.
Do prescription medication labels still have to match the passenger’s boarding pass?
If the name on the prescription medication label does not match the name of the passenger, the passenger should expect to explain why to our Security Officer.
What is TSA’s policy if the passenger does not present his/her medication for additional screening?
The situation will be evaluated case-by-case. All medication not packaged in one quart-size bag should be presented at the screening checkpoint for further inspection. Passengers should only carry on medication that is required to be available during their itinerary.
Do these changes include new restrictions on materials necessary to diabetics?
Liquids, gels, and aerosols, in containers greater than 3 ounces, necessary for diabetic or other medical conditions must be declared if not in the one quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag.
What are the new regulations regarding non-prescription medications (i.e., saline solution, eye care products and KY jelly)?
The situation will be evaluated case-by-case. All medication over 3 ounces and not packaged in one quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag should be presented at the screening checkpoint for further inspection. Passengers should only carry on medication that is required to be available during their itinerary.
Are there any changes to the policy regarding gel-filled bras and similar prosthetics, gel-filled wheelchair cushions, life support and life sustaining liquids such as bone marrow, blood products, and transplant organs carried for medical reasons.
No. The existing procedures for permitting these items will continue to be followed.
Can a passenger traveling with a small child bring a larger quantity of baby formula and/or baby food?
Yes, but they must be declared to TSA upon arrival at the checkpoint. Small amounts of baby formula, breast milk, or baby food necessary for the passenger’s itinerary are permitted through the screening checkpoint if a baby or small child is traveling. All items including formula or breast milk will be inspected.
Neither the passenger nor the baby or toddler will be asked to test or taste breast milk or formula. Our Security Officers will not test or taste formula or breast milk.
How is the TSA going to ensure that the larger quantities of prescription medications, diabetes treatments and baby formula are not a threat?
TSA will examine the containers and supporting documentation presented by the passenger. The passenger will be required to adequately explain the need. Where appropriate, the passenger should have documentation supporting the need.
Can I leave the zip-top bag in my carry-on bag at the checkpoint?
No. Travelers will be required to remove the zip-top bag and place it in the bin for X-ray screening.
What happens if I leave the secure boarding area and have to re-enter the screening checkpoint?
Travelers can now bring items, including beverages, purchased in the secure, boarding area on-board the aircraft. However, if travelers leave this area at any point before reaching their destination and have to re-screen, such items will again be prohibited (unless those items are 3 ounces or less and contained in the zip-top bag).