Removing electronics and liquids from your carry-on may soon not be the only items you have to take out at the security checkpoint, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
With many airlines charging steep checked-bag fees, an increasing number of travelers are relying on carry-on luggage. That trend often creates long security lines of passengers with overstuffed rolling bags and backpacks. Packed bags make it harder for TSA scanners to get a clear view of contents, which increases the number of manual inspections, slows the screening process and contributes to passenger frustration.
The TSA is testing a new requirement that would ask travelers to remove and separate food items from their carry-on baggage during screening. Trials are underway at three airports: Los Angeles International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport and Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport. If the pilot proves successful and TSA staff complete the necessary training, the agency could expand the policy to airports across the country.
The goal of the initiative is twofold: to improve image clarity on X-ray machines and to reduce the frequency of manual bag openings. Foods packed tightly with other items can obscure potential threats on X-ray images, so separating food can help TSA officers and screening technology make faster, more accurate determinations. That efficiency would shorten wait times and reduce the inconvenience of extra searches for travelers.
Passengers can prepare now by keeping food items in a separate, easily accessible compartment or clear bag within their carry-on, or by placing them in a small bag that can be quickly removed at the checkpoint. Foods in opaque containers or bulk quantities are most likely to trigger additional inspection, so presenting them separately will help the screening process.
As with existing rules for electronics and liquids, following the instruction to separate food would be a quick, simple step for most travelers but could significantly speed up screening for everyone. Travelers should continue to follow posted TSA guidance and any specific instructions at individual airports while this trial is underway.