What do I need to know in light of the Dec. 25th terrorist plot on Northwest 253?

First of all, I encourage everyone to continue traveling. Giving in to fear is exactly what terrorists hope we will do. Keep in mind that everyone on the plane was OK, and that our government and other governments around the world are hard at work trying to keep us, the traveling public, safe.

Due to heightened security, it is important to inform yourself ahead of your trip of the latest advisories at

www.TSA.gov

Other places to look for information include your airline or airport's website. In general, domestic travel remains largely unchanged, but please check how far in advance you should arrive at the airport before your trip!

Recently, a friend of ours did not arrive at Tel Aviv's (Israel) Ben Gurion Airport until 2 hours before their flight. In Israel, security is extra tight, and that means 3 hours ahead MINIMUM. There is security before the ticket counter, after the ticket counter, Passport Control, and security at the gate. Fortunately, the friend still made their flight.

In the U.S., plan to be there at least 3 or even 4 hours ahead for INTERNATIONAL flights if you are flying out of a major gateway or hub such as Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or New York. If you are originating at a smaller airport or traveling DOMESTICALLY, arrive at least 2 hours ahead or whatever the airport or airline advises.

Currently, the rules are still evolving, but in general, domestic rules remain largely unchanged. Passengers arriving from outside the U.S. will notice the greatest differences, including extra screening before boarding their non-stop flight to the U.S. (Hand searches of luggage, pat-downs, etc.).

Check the latest Carry-on regulations with your airline and TSA. You may only be allowed one carry-on (not a laptop and a carry-on).

Check as much as possible, or ship bags ahead.

If you must have a carry-on, pack it in layers (not helter-skelter) so it is easily viewed by the X-ray machine.

Chances are good that your carry-on will be hand searched as well, so make sure it can be easily unpacked and re-packed by you and/or security personnel.

All liquids must fit in 1 quart sized Ziploc-type bag, and be in containers of 3 oz. (100 ml) or less.

Empty all pockets, take off all jackets, remove laptops from their cases, and remove shoes before reaching the front of the line, in order to speed up the screening process.

Feel free to contact me with questions, and keep flying!

Josh