The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expanding screening procedures at airports across the country, asking passengers to remove all electronic devices larger than a cellphone from their carry-on bags and place them in bins for X-ray screening.

The objects can be placed in the same bin as long as there is nothing on top or below them, according to the TSA. The policy was tested at 10 U.S. airports this summer, and the new procedure will be in place nationwide over the coming weeks and months.

The TSA said the new procedure, previously required only for laptops, is necessary in order to get a clearer X-ray image of devices that could be used to construct explosives. The rule applies to items such as tablets, e-readers, cameras and DVD players. Separating them from passengers’ often jam-packed carry-ons will give officers a clearer look at the electronic devices, as passengers seek to take more of their belongings with them into the cabin to avoid airline baggage fees.

There are no changes to what travelers can bring through the security checkpoint, just a change in what has to be removed from their bags to be screened separately. Quart-sized bags of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes — no more than 3.4 ounces each — are still allowed through checkpoints but must still be removed from carry-on luggage and placed in a bin.

To expedite the screening process, the TSA is advising all travelers to:
• Organize carry-on bags so electronics larger than a cell phone can be quickly and easily accessed at the checkpoint.
• Ensure that the bag of liquids, gels and aerosols can be easily accessed and removed, as well.
• Refrain from overstuffing carry-on bags in order to facilitate faster, more effective screening.
• Remember to put all items back in the carry-on bag after screening, and double-check to ensure that no items are left behind.
 

Travelers who are part of TSA’s PreCheck program, which offers expedited screening for those who have had a background check and been fingerprinted, will be exempt from the new screening procedures. — Regina McGee