8/11/2006 -
Here’s the latest word on yesterday’s thwarted terrorist plot to blow up as many as 10 airline flights from the United Kingdom to U.S. airports:
CNN’s latest story
CNN’s advisory on new airline security procedures
USA Today’s latest story
Its Q&A piece on airline security changes
Its roundup of airline policies for changing and re-scheduling tickets
An update from CruiseCritic.com on the impact of airline flight delays on European cruises
Prepare your clients for major changes in airport security procedures as a result of this incident. Immediately, they should plan to arrive at the airport for U.S.-originating flights at least two hours before their scheduled flight times. Delta Air Lines and several other carriers have actually recommended arriving three hours ahead of schedule.
Federal officials have banned all liquids and gels from carry-on baggage, including beverages, shampoos, perfumes, suntan lotions, toothpaste, contact lens solution, etc. You can carry baby formula, breast milk, or juice as long as a baby or small child is traveling with you, and you may also take prescription medicine (if it’s in a bottle with the passenger’s name on it), insulin, and essential non-prescription medications. (Your clients may still carry these items in their checked luggage.)
Many airlines were recommending yesterday that passengers check their bags and carry on as little as possible. (Note that flights originating from the United Kingdom have banned carry-on luggage and all electric- and battery-powered devices such as laptops and iPods as well, so check ahead with the airlines in question for your clients.)