Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport

New Security Regulations

Effective September 26, 2006, a new Transportation Security Administration directive sets parameters for taking small quantities of formerly prohibited liquids, gels and aerosols through airport security checkpoints and on board aircraft.

Under the new rules, passengers can once again transport travel-size liquid, gel or aerosol toiletries (in packages of 3 ounces or less) in their carry on bags as long as they keep them all in a single, quart size, clear plastic zip-top bag. Liquids, gels and aerosols include beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, toothpaste, hair gel, hair spray, and other items of similar consistency. The contents of the bag must fit comfortably and the plastic bag must be completely closed/sealed and subjected to x-ray inspection separate from the passenger's carry-on bag.

Larger quantities of certain items are allowed provided the passenger declares them to officials at the screening checkpoint. Those items include:

1. Baby formula/milk (including breast milk) and baby food in containers if a baby or small child is traveling
2. Medications (liquid, gel and/or aerosol)
3. Liquids (including juice) or gels for diabetic or other medical needs

Other liquids, gels and/or aerosols may be transported in checked baggage.

People who enter the screening checkpoint with liquids, gels and/or aerosols may be subjected to secondary screening.

Passengers may now bring liquids, gels and/or aerosols purchased in the sterile (secure) side of airports on board the aircraft. That means travelers can now purchase full meals-including beverages-from airport restaurants located behind the security checkpoints onto aircraft. Retail items in liquid, gel or aerosol form purchased in airport stores also are allowed. Keep in mind that if you carry such items outside the secure areas of airports, you will not be able to bring them back in through the security checkpoints unless they are sized, packaged and/or declared in accordance with the new security regulations.

For more information, visit the Transportation Security Administration's Web site