Do You Have to Take Out Liquids When You Go Through TSA?

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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You might notice some changes the next time you go through airport security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has made some improvements that are designed to help enhance safety and reduce physical contact (and prevent the spread of COVID-19) during the screening process.

Here are two big changes you might see the next time you fly.

Identification

Person scanning digital boarding pass at airport — Jacob Lund | Adobe Stock

Some airports are now equipped with Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which allows the TSA to quickly verify your identity, and eliminate the need for travelers to show their boarding pass. Instead of handing over your ticket and ID to the agent, now all you’ll have to do is insert your driver’s license into a scanner. This new method helps keep things contactless, as only the traveler (not the agent) will touch their identification.

Electronics and Liquids

Close up of carry on backpack as it goes through a security scanner — Chalabala | Adobe Stock

Even if you’re not a TSA PreCheck member, you may be able to leave your liquids and electronics in your carry-on bag as you go through screening. More airports will now use Computed Tomography (CT) scanners which improve the scanning capabilities for carry-on bags, eliminating the need for travelers to remove liquids and electronics. However, note that all liquids packed in carry-on bags will still need to comply with the 3-1-1 rule.

According to a statement by the TSA, “The CT units provide TSA officers the ability to review a 3D image of passengers’ bags and reduce the need to search the bag’s contents. Passengers screened in security lanes with CT units do not need to remove their travel-size liquids bag or electronics.”

Travelers can expect to see the new CT units at:

Billings Logan International Airport, Montana
Albany International Airport, New York
Buffalo Niagara International Airport, New York
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
Raleigh-Durham International Airport, North Carolina.

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