CWT - Government/Legislation

Government/Legislation

TSA expected to ease liquid restrictions in 2009
The Transportation Security Administration is likely to allow larger bottles of liquids on airplanes by the end of 2009. While the bottles will still be required to be removed from carry-on luggage for security screening, the liquids, gels, and aerosols will be allowed on flights instead of being required to be sent in checked baggage. The restrictions also are expected to be lifted in airports of other countries that have implemented them.

The changes are due to better screening technologies now available and deployed to ensure that security is not threatened by larger volumes of these substances. With the change in procedure, security lines are expected to speed up and allow travelers to be on their way more quickly.

Sources: ABC News, USA Today

U.S. Department of Transportation raises lost-luggage compensation
On November 18, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that beginning in December, airlines are required to pay up to USD $3,300 per lost bag, up from USD $3,000.

DOT says the new rate reflects consumer price inflation since the last increase was made in January 2007.

According to the Department, the number of mishandled and lost bags has decreased over the past year, “possibly as a result of fees for checked bags imposed by many airlines beginning this year.”

Sources: Aviation Week, Business Travel News