US. Effective from 4 August, the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will no longer enforce the ban on common lighters in carry-on luggage, although torch lighters will still be banned.
The TSA said was in an effort to concentrate resources on detecting explosive threats instead. The agency collects more than 22,000 lighters a day which represents a high percentage of all prohibited items surrendered at checkpoints nationwide.
In 2006, over 11.6 million lighters were confiscated from passengers at US airport checkpoints, compared to 1.6 million knives/blades, 12,000 clubs/bats and another 75,000 items which were described as “˜dangerous’.
“Explosives remain the most significant threat to aviation,” said TSA Administrator Kip Hawley. “By enabling our officers to focus on the greatest threats we are using our officers’ time and energy more effectively and increasing security for passengers.”
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Torch lighters (left) remain banned but common lighters are allowed on board US flights from 4 August |
TSA is also modifying the procedures associated with carrying breast milk through security checkpoints. Mothers flying with or without their child will be permitted to bring breast milk in quantities greater than three ounces as long as it is declared for inspection at the security checkpoint.
TSA said: “The procedural adjustments were developed based on process and effectiveness studies, feedback from the workforce and regular consultation with airports, airlines and other security partners. This marks the third modification to security procedures within the last year. On August 10, 2006, a complete ban on liquids, gels and aerosols was implemented immediately following the thwarted terror plot in the United Kingdom, and the update to those measures permitting travel-size amounts of liquids went into effect in September of 2006.
“TSA has notified Congress of these changes and will soon begin training its workforce of 43,000 security officers. The United States previously had been the only nation in the world to prohibit lighters from carry-ons. Lifting this ban is another step in our efforts to harmonize security measures with international partners. Since August 2006, 59 countries around the world have adopted the 3-1-1 standard for liquids, gels and aerosols: three ounce containers, in one clear, zip-top plastic bag and one bag per traveller at the checkpoint.”
The news has already been welcomed by the travel retail trade. Representing the Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association, Board Member in charge of LAGS Rakhita Jayawardena said: “It is very encouraging to see the latest development from the TSA.”
