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Checked luggage spikes after new security rules
09:50 AM/ET, Aug 18, 2006

Fliers are checking more luggage than usual as carry-on restrictions for liquids and gels remain following last week’s thwarted terror plot. The Arizona Republic says that “spike in the amount of checked luggage” on U.S. airlines remains the “one notable exception” as air travel otherwise returns to normal.

Arizona-based US Airways tells the paper that it is checking about 23% more bags than usual since the new security restrictions went into effect. At discount giant Southwest, checked bags are up by 10%. “The shift away from carry-ons is a mixed blessing,” the Republic writes.

Security lines have been short at many airports, possibly because fliers are bringing fewer items through checkpoints. And the paper reports that many flights have experienced quicker boarding times without passengers jostling for space in the overhead storage bins. "It's a little faster getting on aircraft, a little faster getting off," says Al Crellin, executive vice president of operations for US Airways.

Of course, there’s a downside too. Many airline’s baggage handlers already were stretched to the limit before the surge in checked luggage. At some locations, airlines have had to bring in extra staff and equipment to handle the demand. And where there are shortages, fliers face potentially longer waits for their luggage to make it from their flight to the baggage carousel. "I would just love to just hop in my car and go, but I'm heading down to baggage claim to wait and wait and wait," says Phoenix frequent flier Peggy Patterson. Prior to the restrictions, she says she usually was able to pack everything she needed in a small carry-on bag.

The Republic writes that “Wall Street is keeping a close eye on the reaction of frequent travelers like Patterson because they are airlines' bread and butter. If they reduce their travel because of the hassle, it will hurt airlines' unfolding recovery.” Already, some private jet operators have reported increased sales following the latest security changes, according to Reuters. But –- at least for now -– most industry observers predict business travelers aren't ready to abandon commercial flights. "We have had some indications that right now there are some shifts," says Caleb Tiller of the National Business Travel Association. "But we expect those to be temporary."

Wit note: You should get through security faster BUT, you will spend longer checking in with more bags being checked. Also don't forget that all bags have to go through their own security check after they leave your hot, little hands so don't wait until the last minute to check in if you want your bags to arrive with you. They are also making the cut-off times for checking in and reporting to the gate earlier than before. Don't be late for either. Better to be at the gate waiting (take a book or magazine) than left behind.

Good advice Wit,
Dropped some amigos off at the airport last week for a trip to Panama and they were told they were too late! And NOT allowed to check in but rebooked for the next day, even though it was 50 minutes before scheduled takeoff. I think the Continental agent was just being a prick as they had plenty of time to check in and catch the flight to IAH, but... take note and get to the airport early.

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Living well is the best revenge
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Wit good article: I noticed as I flew out to Las Vegas for the "Adult Nightclub Convention" yesterday lines for security were non existent. It could have been that is was Sunday afternoon and the K*ds are all back in school or it could be related to much more checked baggage.

Regardless, not to teach how to beat the system, but I carried my mini bottle of cologne, toothpaste in my pockets of my cargo shorts and had no problem with secuity. note. If you do that don't get cute and put them in your carry on till you get on the plane as they are re-checking carry ons when you board.

Last but not least, Federal law requires any International Check in which was their final destination "Panama" if I read correctly requires 60 minutes prior to flight departure time check in and with no bags 45 minutes. They must present the manifest to TSA for screening and those are the requirements. Don't know what the luggage situation was with your friends, but well could have fallen into one of the two above.

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"Success isn't having $$ it is knowing how to Spend It"

Gman,
Thanks for reminding me of something.

The TSA is pushing for a requirment to have the passenger manifests for ALL flights be submitted for approval BEFORE THE PLANE LEAVES! They are checking for known terrorists and YES, bad people have been known to fly to/from the US from Central America (especially drug smugglers).

Thus they are cutting off the boarding process EARLY. This is part of what the pilot is talking about when he says "We will be ready to leave as soon as the paperwork is completed".

Don't wait until the last minute to get checked in and to the gate. Things are NOT like the good old days and they probably never will be again.

Wit
ps. So how is Vegas, besides hot?

Thanks for posting this Gman, yes they did have bags to check so they were under the 60 minute time limit. Not sure why the agent didn't simply explain this. Since I never check bags to CR this time limit never affected me nor was I aware of it but good to now know the rules on this...
International Check in requires 60 minutes prior to flight departure time check in, and with no bags 45 minutes.

For an international flight you really should check in around two hours before departure At least that gives you the time to hit the duty free, load up on enough nicotine to keep you going and check out the VIP lounges.

Just an update, since I don't check bags and am preparing for a flight. According to the TSA what is currently allowed in your carry-on:

Eye drops/Saline solution - You are allowed to carry up to 4 oz., of eye drops with you. Volumes greater than 4 oz., are only permitted in your checked baggage. (4 oz. travel size avialable at most drug stores)

Non-prescription liquid or gel medicines like cough syrup and gel cap type pills - Up to 4 oz. of essential non-prescription liquid medications.

Personal lubricants - Up to 4 oz.

Stick Deodorants appear to be OK, it says- Deodorants made of gel or aerosol must be checked.

And of course Cigar Cutters, Corkscrews, Gel-filled bras, Knitting and Crochet Needles, Nail Files, Toy Transformer Robots and Screwdrivers less than 7" are still perfectly acceptable carry-on items.

For the latest go to TSA.gov website.

_________________

Living well is the best revenge
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwUtj_YnNoY