The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be installing state-of-the-art computed tomography (CT) scanners in the security checkpoint at Tallahassee International Airport (TLH) and passengers should allow extra time to be screened during that process.
Beginning February 14th and through February 25th as the new equipment is being installed in two lanes, there will be periodic slowdowns in screening. Passengers should arrive at the airport two hours before flights. Once the lanes are re-opened, passengers will notice an improved checkpoint experience.
When the CTs are in use, travelers do not need to remove electronics or travel-size liquids from carry-on luggage. Passengers in the TSA PreCheck program have that benefit regardless of whether the CT is in use and all travelers are encouraged to sign up for the program.
“The CT technology utilizes a sophisticated algorithm to analyze the content of the bag and will allow TSA officers to rotate the image and ascertain that no threats are contained in the bag without needing to open the suitcase,” said Brian Cahill, TSA’s federal security director for TLH and other airports in Northern Florida. “Reducing the number of bags that need a visual inspection improves the security experience.”
In addition to arriving early, here are seven tips for getting through the TSA checkpoint as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Tip 1: No guns in carry-ons. 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 it is your responsibility to know what the gun laws are on both sides of your trip.
Tip 2: Wear a face mask. You must. The federal face mask mandate for travelers remains in place for any location inside an airport or on a plane. Those who refuse to wear a mask face steep fines from the TSA.
Tip 3: Leave all prohibited items at home. Search your bag before leaving home. Unsure if it’s allowed: use the “What Can I Bring?” page on TSA.gov.
Tip 4: Secure items in your carry-on not in bins. When removing items from pockets such as phones, keys, lip balm, tissues and loose change, travelers should secure those items into their carry-on bags instead of placing them in bins. This saves time, reduces stress and is more sanitary.
Tip 5: Prepare for the security checkpoint. Have a valid ID card readily available. Follow the liquids rule of 3.4 ounces or less for all liquids, gels and aerosols, with the exception of hand sanitizer, which has a temporary 12-ounce limit in carry-on baggage.
Tip 6: Help is available. Get live assistance by tweeting your questions and comments to @AskTSA in English or Spanish or via Facebook Messenger. You can also call the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673.
Tip 7: 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.