It goes without saying that 2020 will be remembered as a historic year. The global COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact our daily lives, including how we travel and how we vacation. Who knew the 244th birthday of America’s independence would be so different?! We know traveling during this pandemic is no easy decision. But we’re here to help you get back home safely!
Many of you traveled earlier this week via an airport to reach your July 4th destinations. First – thanks for helping TSA keep our workforce and your fellow travelers safe. Now, you’re probably planning for your return trip back home.
Double check (again) to be safe
Many airlines and airports are providing new guidance and restrictions. Remember to check with your airline prior to your return trip as it may be a different airline than the one you used to get to your destination. Also, check with your departure airport in case they have different guidance from your home airport. Lastly, we always recommend following these sites for the latest travel information: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of State.
What you see at the airport security checkpoint for your return flight may look slightly different than what you saw when you left home. One thing’s for certain, all our TSA officers will be wearing face masks and gloves to help you get through the screening checkpoint germ-free. You will also see social distancing between travelers and TSA officers, some plastic shielding at various points of interaction, and cleaning of frequently touched checkpoint surfaces. These are all meant to keep you safe while traveling!
Pack Wisely
Many travelers are carrying cleaning wipes, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting sprays in their carry-on bag. While these are usually allowed, be sure to follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule, and check out our “What Can I Bring?” feature on TSA.gov. Remember to pack smart and be ready for the TSA checkpoint – review our quick tips video or carry-on bags!
Arrive Early
Always allow yourself time to arrive, park, print your boarding pass, check your baggage, and proceed to the security checkpoint. The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new screening procedures that can require a little extra time. But just remember, all our new safety measures are designed to keep you and your family safe. For more information on the TSA security screening process during the pandemic, visit TSA.gov.
Touchless ID Verification
Your first step at the TSA checkpoint will be ID verification. You will likely be able to have your identity verified without handing over your ID or boarding pass. There may even be a plastic shield between you and the TSA officer. Although you should wear a mask while at the checkpoint, the TSA officer may ask you to lower your mask temporarily to verify your identity.
Need We Say It? Leave Unused Fireworks Behind!
Remember, fireworks are prohibited by FAA rule and cannot be transported on commercial aircraft. This includes firecrackers, fountains, bottle rockets, ground spinners, poppers, snaps, roman candles, smoke fireworks, strobes, cherry bombs, nipsy daisers, with or without the scooter stick, and even snakes and sparklers.
Need Help? Just Ask!
Do you have additional questions related to an upcoming flight? Reach out to our AskTSA customer care team on Twitter or Facebook. We are available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET, and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET on weekends and holidays. You can also call TSA’s Contact Center at (866) 289-9673, or contact them via online form.
