TSA bans new set of common items from checked bags
Cordless hair tools will no longer be allowed in checked luggage, including cordless curling irons or flatirons containing gas cartridges, butane-fueled curling irons or flat irons, and gas refills (spare cartridges) for curling irons or flat irons. These items are still allowed in carry-on bags 'as they are fitted with safety covers over the heating elements to protect them from accidental activation,' per The Street .
'Electric curling irons and hair straighteners with cords that plug into an electric outlet are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage,' the site added. If TSA finds any banned items in your checked suitcase, your bag will be confiscated for inspection, and you could face fines. Other items banned from checked bags includes electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, fertilizer, fireworks, liquid bleach, matches, portable phone chargers containing lithium batteries, sparklers, and spray paint, amongst other things.
The new ban comes after TSA announced it is now accepting a new, free form of identification through mobile apps, making airport security checks faster for travelers. More than 250 airports across the US have begun accepting digital IDs stored on smartphones, per its website.
This new system allows passengers to use state-issued digital driver's licenses or ID cards via their phone's wallet app, such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet, as an accepted form of identification at TSA checkpoints States that currently accept the new form of identification include: Arkansas , Arizona , California , Colorado , Georgia, Hawaii , and Iowa . Louisiana , Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia are also included.
Each state decides which form of digital ID is eligible. Despite the new rules, the TSA urged passengers to always fly with a physical form of identification. Travelers simply present their phone with the digital ID at the TSA checkpoint, where biometric technology can compare their live image to the ID to verify their identity without the need for a physical card.
This touchless approach is designed to enhance security while improving passenger flow and privacy. The administration also clarified that the photo portion is optional for travelers. If they decline, the TSA officer will use the standard ID verification process.
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