Simple tips can help travelers avoid delays at the airport
13.04.2005, 21:11
Did you know that on some days more than 20,000 people pass through metal detectors at Southwest Florida International Airport? Imagine the chaos if airport security had problems with even a fraction of those 20,000 travelers. To assure your visit to the airport is trouble-free, follow these simple tips provided by Robert S. Cohen, Airport Security Director, and his staff. The first tip you have certainly heard before — arrive early. Two hours before your scheduled flight is recommended. By arriving early, you will have time to deal with some of the many issues that can arise.
Start divesting your items while standing in line to go through screening, not when you reach the front of the line. Also, loose items should be put in a carry-on bag. For example, any bulky accessories, belts and loose change should be stowed inside a carry-on item such as a purse, or laptop case.
Don't wear lots of metal jewelry. Metal objects trip the metal detectors and slow down the security check process. A suggestion is that you put jewelry in your carry-on luggage or keep it in your purse. Likewise, don't pack expensive jewelry in the luggage you check in because there is always the remote possibility your bags will be delayed, lost or worse yet, pilfered.
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Here's a big no no. Don't pack or carry prohibitive items such as guns, sharp scissors, lighters or potentially dangerous items. Be aware that although some items are prohibited from being carried on the plane, the same item may be allowed in your checked luggage. When in doubt, contact the airline or airport security before heading to the airport.
Here's an interesting point about handguns and concealed weapons. Even if you have a valid permit to carry a concealed weapon, it is still a criminal offense to carry and conceal a weapon at the airport. If you don't have a valid concealed weapons permit it is an automatic felony.
Law enforcement officials should remember that this also applies to you, unless you are on official duty and can prove it. Again, it is best to check with airport security before visiting the airport.
As a general guideline here are some objects considered dangerous that you can't carry on the plane or that may be confiscated: sharp objects including knives; club-like items and martial arts equipment like num chucks and brass knuckles; chemicals; explosives; guns; and mace. The list goes on and is not limited to just these items. Again, when in doubt make a call.
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Here's another helpful tip. If you bring something to the airport that can be confiscated, say a pocket knife attached to your key ring, you may be given the option to pack it in your checked luggage or dispose of it in an abandoned/prohibited items container. You can also simply turn it in once you realize you inadvertently brought it with you. You will not be able to get the object back, upon your return.
Here's another fact most people don't know. Tools are not permitted. This means hammers, screwdrivers, pliers or other handy items typically used to build or fix things. These innocent objects can easily be used as weapons.
For smokers, here's a heads up. Effective April 14, all cigarette lighters will be banned. Torch lighters have been banned all along. Now the rules include disposable butane lighters.