Archive for January 31st, 2012

One of the biggest man induced tragedies in recent times has to be without doubt the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center, which caused deaths of several innocent people. The fear induced by how easily aircraft were hijacked and crashed into the building has led to heightened airport security all over the world. With threats of more plots having been unearthed, these regulations have only become more stringent. There are many restrictions for carry on luggage and baggage that a passenger brings with him. This applies to both checked baggage and carry on luggage. In fact carry on restrictions are more in number as compared to checked luggage restrictions. This is due to the fact that it is easier to use a potentially threatening item which is a part of carry on luggage in aircraft carriers. In this article we’ll give you detailed information about the many carry on restrictions.

Understanding Airline Carry on Restrictions

Many passengers before making airline trips always tend to ask the question, what can I take on a plane, as different carriers tend to have differing rules about what is allowed as a part of the luggage. But there are some carry on restrictions that are uniform. All aircraft have strict restrictions for carry on luggage regarding their size and also carrying liquids aboard. In case you suffer from some sort of disability, you may contact the airlines about what are the specific carry on restrictions for you.

Carry on Luggage Size Restrictions
Airline carry on size restrictions are generally specified in inches and is a total measure of the length, width, and height of the luggage. This also includes the external pockets of the luggage and the handle and wheels. Most airlines have differing measurements for airline carry on size. It is important that your carry on luggage has only those items that you truly need. Stick to stuff like a purse, reading material, medication that is important, etc. You may also have carry on restrictions on the number of bags you can carry. The stuff that is categorized as personal item and can be included in carry on luggage are cameras, laptops, umbrellas, bag for carry on liquids, gaming consoles, etc. There is generally a 36 inches restriction on items inclusive of carry on luggage.

Carry on Restrictions for Liquids
Most countries in the world follow the carry on rules as specified by the TSA which is United States Transportation Security Administration. According to the airline carry on liquid rules, passengers are allowed to carry liquids and gels in certain specified quantities which have been deemed harmless. According to the TSA, in order to make your security check less prolonged, you, as a passenger should follow the 3-1-1 rule. According to this regulation passengers are allowed to carry liquids and gels of measurement that is equal to or less than 3 ounce in volume. Each passenger is allowed to carry one bag of quart size with these liquid and gel bottles and every passenger is allowed one bag per screening bin. As a passenger you are allowed to buy beverages at the terminal after passing airport security. There are certain exceptions to the carry on restrictions regarding liquids. This includes breast milk and juices for infants. Prescribed medications and life support necessities are also allowed. In case of such items that you believe will be exempt, you need to declare them during security check so that they can be screened properly.

Carry on Rules for the Disabled
In case you have any kind of disability, it is important that this information is imparted to security as soon as possible. This will ease your security check. In case you use a wheelchair, the same will be checked before it is allowed on board the airplane. Carry on luggage: rules and restrictions apply to mobility aids which will be examined by security personnel. In case you are visually impaired you can ask for assistance during the screening period. In case you have implants of any kind which can cause hurdles during security check, volunteer this information to the officials in charge of airline safety. It is important that you make the concerned authorities aware of any problems without fear. This is important for proper security.

Carry on restrictions on international flights are much more stringent than on domestic flights. It is always better to follow the air travel tips as suggested by the airline you are following in case you want your trip to be hassle free. Most aircraft carriers list out the current restrictions on carry on luggage on their website, so you could always refer to these before planning your trip.