On August 10, authorities in the United Kingdom announced that a major terrorist plot to smuggle bombs on American airlines traveling from London to the U.S. was thwarted. If you're planning to travel to Great Britain for either business or pleasure, you'll need to be aware of new security restrictions in place regarding carry-on luggage. Because the summer travel season is in full force, you'll probably run into some major delays prior to the boarding process. Because the alleged plot involved the smuggling of liquid explosives, disguised as beverages, security officials on both sides of the Atlantic (as well as around the world) are taking unprecedented steps to protect airline passengers traveling from Heathrow, Gatwick and other major U.K. airports. Although delays, cancellations, inconvenience and chaos has ensued, the flying public should try their best to understand the reason for the security measures and take steps to prepare themselves before leaving for the airport. Travelers are urged to be at the airport here in the U.S. and also in the U.K. at least three hours prior to takeoff in order to undergo the additional necessary security screenings and bag checks. If you're planning on flying on one of the 100+ daily flights between the U.S. and U.K., you'll need to pay close attention to the following lists of do's and don'ts: Flying FROM the U.S. to the United Kingdom: You may carry on approved electronic items (like laptops, cell phones and iPods), but you must pack all liquids and gels in your checked luggage. This includes beverages of all kinds, shampoo and conditioner, suntan lotion, lotions, toothpaste, hair mousse and gel, and "other items of similar consistency." Flying FROM the United Kingdom to the U.S.: No purses, carry-ons or electronic items are allowed. Only allowable items (listed below) can be taken on board in a single clear plastic bag. Nothing will be allowed in your pockets. The allowable items are as follows: - pocket size wallets and pocket size purses plus contents (money, credit cards, identity cards, etc.) - essential travel documents (passports and travel tickets) - prescription medicines and medical items sufficient and essential for the flight (a diabetic kit for example), except in liquid form unless verified as authentic; the name on the bottle must match the name on the airline ticket - eyeglasses and sunglasses (cases are NOT allowed) - contact lens cases (saline solution is NOT allowed) - female sanitary items sufficient and essential for the flight if unboxed - handkerchiefs or unboxed tissues - keys (electrical key fobs are NOT allowed and must be checked) - non-liquid duty free purchases - if traveling with an infant: baby food, milk (the contents of each bottle must be tasted by the accompanying passenger) and sanitary items sufficient and essential for the flight (wipes, creams, disposal bags) Major airlines have offered to waive excess baggage fees, to a point, until approximately August 17. Checking with the airlines for individual policies prior to departure is definitely the way to go. |
