TSA Makes Airport Check-in Procedures Clearer and Adds Family Lanes

Even though air travel numbers are down, Thanksgiving is a very busy travel period. Last year saw more than 23 million passengers travel through airports throughout the United States, numbers that could leave long lines at airport security screening points.

Many passengers are not sure of what is allowed past security, why they may have to take off their shoes, or have a secondary screening. And not knowing what to anticipate can certainly make it one of the most stressful aspects of air travel.

Thus the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced its partnership with the Ad Council and launched a national public awareness campaign to educate passengers about airport screening, in hopes that waiting times will be shorter, and a less difficult experience.

Videos include: Why do I have to take of my shoes? Why do I have to put my three ounce liquids in a zip-top plastic bag? Why do I have to show ID?

The TSA explained the need for the campaign and answered the "whys" in this way:

• TSA's research shows that travelers are more willing to cooperate with airport security when they better understand the reasoning behind the procedure.
• According to the TSA the campaign explains how procedures help ensure your security.
• Passengers are encouraged to log onto www.tsa.gov to find local airport information, including wait times.

The TSA has also added new nationwide convenience lanes for families with children and travelers with special needs.

image from tsa.gov