WORCESTER, Mass. – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared to start screening passengers once again at Worcester Regional Airport (ORH). Massachusetts’ second largest airport will reopen for business on Thursday, August 19, after being closed for more than 10 months.
During the pandemic at the height of summer in 2020, TSA officers at ORH were only screening approximately 14 passengers a day. Down quite a bit from the 307 per day average in 2019.
The TSA security checkpoints at ORH now have acrylic barriers throughout the security screening process. The new acrylic barriers will help reduce or eliminate physical contact between passengers and TSA staff at ORH.
TSA would like to remind future ORH travelers that face masks currently are required throughout the airport security screening checkpoints, throughout the airport and while on their flight.
Those who refuse to wear a mask face fines from the TSA and from the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) if the infraction occurs while flying. The TSA continues to work closely with all transportation partners to enable the highest security standards within a travel environment that helps reduce the spread of COVID-19.
“We are focused on the health and safety of our workforce and the traveling public,” said Bob Allison, TSA Federal Security Director for Massachusetts. “The TSA is honored to be screening all travelers out of Worcester once again.”
Those flying to destinations as travel continues to pick up should follow these six tips for getting through the TSA checkpoint as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Tip 1: Wear a face mask. You must. The federal requirement supports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Emergency Order mandating face masks be worn on all public conveyances and at stations, ports, or similar transportation hubs regardless of state and local laws.
Tip 2: Leave prohibited items at home. To reduce the likelihood of physical contact with TSA officers at the checkpoint, verify if items should be packed in a carry-on bag, checked bag, either or neither by using the “What Can I Bring?” page on TSA.gov.
Tip 3: Prepare for the security checkpoint. Have your valid ID readily available. Follow the liquids rule of 3.4 ounces or less, with the exception of hand sanitizer, which has a temporary 12-ounce limit in carry-on baggage.
Tip 4: No guns at checkpoints ever. Airline passengers can fly with firearms only in checked baggage. All firearms must be properly packed and declared at check-in. Contact your airline for additional guidance. And know what the laws are on both sides of your trip.
Tip 5: Help is always available. Get live assistance by tweeting your questions and comments to @AskTSA or via Facebook Messenger, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST and weekends/holidays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST. You can also call the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673.
Tip 6: Enroll now in TSA PreCheck®. “Travel with Ease” by enrolling in TSA PreCheck and avoid removing shoes, belts, liquids, food, laptops and light jackets. Most new enrollees receive a known traveler number within five days, and membership lasts for five years.
ORH is a spoke airport of Boston Logan International and is owned and operated by the Massachusetts Port Authority.