New airport & flight security rules from TSA 12/27

Due to the attempted terror attack on Flight 253 to Michigan Christmas day 2009, the Travel Safety Administration has issued a statement regarding new security measures for domestic and international travel. Passengers on domestic flights may do best to arrive even earlier for flights so that they can be ready for any additional security efforts implemented at their particular airports.

Among the changes, TSA has reported that explosive detection canine teams, law enforcement officers, gate screening, behavior detection and other measures both seen and unseen will be implemented. They also note that passengers should not expect to see the same thing at every airport.

International flights will be where most of the emphasis is placed. There will be increased gate screening including pat-downs and bag searches. Also during these flights, passengers will be asked to follow flight crew instructions, such as stowing away their personal items, turning off electronics equipment and staying in their seats during certain portions of the flight.

There is also a new carry-on rule which will apply to international flights, where passengers can carry a standard-sized bag along with another bag such as a purse or laptop case. Carry-on rules for domestic flights will remain the same.

See TSA's official statement regarding upgraded security here.