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Increased Security when Traveling by Air to the United States

Immigration Articles >> United States Visas >> Increased Security when Traveling by Air to the United States

Long lines at U.S. airports due to increased security

Airplane travel is on the rise, as many find air travel to be convenient and at times cost-efficient. However, aspects of flying such as long lines at airport security and immigration have become included in the frustrating and wearisome aspects of air travel that individuals often dread. After the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the United States introduced numerous increased security measures that have changed how individuals travel. Many countries also instilled heightened security measures at airports and other traveling ports in order to fight terrorism. Documents like passports, identification cards, and visas are more likely to be scrutinized by officials as a result of increased security. It has also become a requirement for travelers to furnish these identification documents when they travel; thus, travelers need to plan ahead in order to ensure they have the appropriate documentation and identification required. As a result of increased security requirements and newly required identification, demand has increased and governmental offices are reporting a backlog in applications. Processing time for passports has increased, so it is advisable to submit applications as soon as possible. Airport security has also been enhanced through stringent hiring requirements of airport personnel, such as extensive, pre-employment background checks. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which is part of the Department of Homeland Security, was formed post-9/11 and is now responsible for screening airplane passengers and luggage. In addition, only ticketed passengers are allowed past security checkpoints, prohibiting family and friends from waiting at airport gates. Frequent PA announcements also encourage travelers to remain vigilant and alert officials if they see unattended luggage or suspicious activity in the airport. Any luggage left unattended will likely be promptly confiscated by authorities.

In the United States, new carry-on luggage restrictions remain in effect. Passengers are generally limited to one piece of carry-on luggage in additional to one piece of personal luggage such as a purse or laptop. Liquid or gel items in carry-on baggage such as shaving gel, makeup, shampoo, and conditioner are only permitted in small quantities, and need to fit into one small Ziploc bag. Bottled water and other drinks that were previously permitted onto planes are not allowed unless they were purchased after going through airport security checkpoints. As such, water bottles remain one of the most frequently confiscated items. Luggage (both check-in and carry-on) is screened with an x-ray machine and may be put through additional inspections by TSA personnel. Individuals are required to remove their shoes and jackets when going through security metal detectors, in order to allow for efficient detection. Some individuals may be required to undergo screening with a hand-held metal detector and be subject to personal searches by TSA authorities. Airport passengers are required to furnish identification and boarding passes at security checkpoints, and are thus asked to keep these documents on hand in order to speed up the process. New x-ray technology which could lead to enhanced security includes "backscatters." They are being pilot tested at airports in the U.S. in addition to London’s Heathrow airport. Unlike traditional x-ray machines, backscatters provide a 360 degree image of the individual. Backscatters are more detailed that x-ray machines and even reveal an individual's genitalia. As such, backscatter scans are performed by authorities that are of the same sex as the individual being scanned. The backscatter has faced criticism but its use has been severely limited. The pilot testing of this advanced technology represents one of many ways that the Department of Homeland Security and its equivalent in other countries are trying to improve airport security.

Airport travelers have reported negative experiences related to increased security requirements and unprofessional actions on behalf of immigration officials. One traveler reported being detained by immigration officers at Miami International Airport without any explanation. She stated that after being held in a room for 1.5 hours, she was told that her fingerprints matched a known terrorist, and next time, she may want to consider using hand cream before she's fingerprinted. Another traveler reported accidentally filling out an incorrect line of an immigration form at Miami International Airport. Reportedly, the immigration official would not allow him to make the correction on the form and he was required to get a new form and wait in line again, for over one hour. Reports of Immigration nightmares also include 3 hour immigration lines, as well as unprofessional, aggressive, and rude action on behalf of airport security officials. Nonetheless, it is important to consider the large number of airplane travelers, and the many stories of professionalism that remain untold. Regardless, considering the numerous increased security measures, it's important to arrive prepared and allow plenty of extra time.

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