U.S. Airports Relax Rules Banning Liquids and Gels

9/26/2006 -

U.S. officials relaxed the rules yesterday on bringing liquids, gels, and aerosols aboard planes. Effective today (Sept. 26), you can carry travel-size toiletries (3 ozs. or less) with you as long as they fit inside one clear, plastic, quart-size zip-top bag. Also, once you’ve cleared security, you can purchase sodas, water, and other drinks (or gels and aerosols at airport shops) and take those items with you on the flight. Similar rule changes are expected soon in the United Kingdom and Europe.

Here’s a link to the official announcement from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA). NOTE: Many travel Web sites -- including major news sites and even TSA’s own site! -- are still displaying the old rules banning liquids, gels, and aerosols right now. This official announcement linked here is the very latest information that’s available.

AIRLINES: TSA Drops Registered Traveler Fees

9/25/2006 -

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) released draft guidelines for companies interested in operating ”registered traveler” programs. USA Today reports that the TSA will drop its planned fees for the programs, after those companies complained that the previously announced amounts would put the price tag for registered traveler services (expedited airport security clearance for pre-screened travelers) at $200. Now, the total fees will probably end up around $110 a year (plus another $20, if the TSA decides ultimately to require a criminal background check as well). Almost two dozen airports and airlines have already registered to offer registered travel security lanes as soon as possible.

How low can Go! go? The inter-island Hawaii division of Mesa Air Group introduced “HERO” one-way fares from $19 between Honolulu and four airports: Hilo, Kahului, Kona, and Lihue. You must buy these tickets by Sept. 30 for travel through Feb. 28, 2007.