EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is implementing new procedures for screening electronics larger than a cell phone at Chippewa Valley Regional Airport (EAU).
“The new procedures will be fully implemented April 1, but some passengers already are being asked to remove electronics larger than a cell phone,” said TSA Regional Public Affairs Manager Carrie Harmon. “The new procedures, which were announced last summer, allow TSA to obtain a clearer X-ray image and increase overall security.”
TSA continuously evaluates and updates security procedures to stay ahead of evolving threats. The screening of large electronics is similar to how laptop computers have been screened for years. Passengers will be asked to remove electronics larger than a cell phone from carry-on bags and place them in a bin with nothing on top or below for better screening. TSA officers also may suggest passengers remove other select items, including food, from their carry-on bags. This is not required, but also helps X-ray operators get a clearer view of the contents of the bag and speeds up the screening process.
TSA officers will guide passengers through the screening process and recommend how best to arrange their carry-on items for X-ray screening. Travelers are encouraged to organize their bags to ease the screening process and keep the lines moving. There are no changes to what travelers can bring through the checkpoint; food and liquid items that comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule, electronics, and books continue to be allowed in carry-on bags. As always, TSA suggests passengers arrive at the airport 1 ½ - 2 hours prior to their scheduled departure time to allow adequate time to navigate the ticketing, baggage and security screening processes.