In a move designed to increase airport security, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced this week that it would start requiring carry-on electronics larger than a cell phone to be placed in bins for X-ray screening.
While certain international flights have faced additional scrutiny in recent months, the new security measure will apply to all U.S. airports in the months ahead. This follows on the heels of new security requirements demanded by Department of Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly in June.
“It is critical for TSA to constantly enhance and adjust security screening procedures to stay ahead of evolving threats and keep passengers safe,” TSA Acting Administrator Huban A. Gowadia said. “By separating personal electronic items such as laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles for screening, TSA officers can more closely focus on resolving alarms and stopping terror threats.”
The new policy essentially treats any electronics larger than cell phones like laptops have already been treated. The TSA notes, however, that passengers might, in turn, experience more bag checks. No changes to what travelers can actually bring through checkpoints have been made, though.
“Whether you’re flying to, from, or within the United States, TSA is committed to raising the baseline for aviation security by strengthening the overall security of our commercial aviation network to keep flying as a safe option for everyone,” Gowadia said.
The new security measures do not, however, apply to any passengers traveling through TSA Pre✓.