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TSA: Fireworks banned from airport, luggage
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Posted on Jun 29 2005
With the Fourth of July holiday only a few days away, the Transportation Security Administration has reminded travelers not to bring fireworks or any other prohibited in checked or carry-on baggage and should not be brought to the airport.
In an advisory, TSA said that fireworks are not permitted in airport sterile areas, in the cabins of aircraft, or in checked baggage stowed in the cargo hold of the aircraft.
“While our primary mission is security, TSA leadership also recognizes the importance of customer service,” said Tom Blank, acting deputy administrator for TSA. “Our screeners are doing everything they can to ensure a safe and smooth trip, but we expect travelers to become familiar with the rules and prohibited items list to avoid potential delays or fines.”
In addition to fireworks, other common prohibited items include firearms, knives, pocketknives, scissors, lighters, and box cutters.
TSA revealed that federal airport screeners are intercepting over one million prohibited items each month, including more than 50 firearms, which result in delays for every passenger at the security checkpoint. Bringing these items to the checkpoint can result in a fine of up to $10,000 and possible arrest and imprisonment.
On Saipan, lighters are the most common prohibited item brought by passengers to the airport. Federal security director Rhonda Vickery said screeners confiscate up to 100 lighters a day. But passengers are given the option to either surrender the lighter or leave it with someone at the airport, she added.
“To avoid delays and potential fines, TSA suggests that every passenger check their person and bags as well as those of traveling companions [including children] to make sure that they are free of prohibited items,” said Blank. ‘We ask all air travelers to pack with particular care and to prepare for the screening process before going to the airport.”
