In the aftermath of the failed terrorist attacks out of London's Heathrow airport in August, travelers have needed to make some adjustments to their carry-on luggage. Restrictions in the U.K. remain the most stringent, while slight modifications have been required for domestic travel.

To the delight of frequent travelers everywhere, the Transportation Security Administration in the U.S. and the UK have relaxed restrictions on liquids in carry-on baggage (the European Union has also adopted these restrictions). Travelers may now carry through security checkpoints travel-size toiletries - 3 ounces or less, (100 milliliters or less, EU and UK) - that fit comfortably in ONE, QUART-SIZE (20 cm. x 20 cm., UK), clear plastic, zip-top bag. After clearing security, U.S. travelers can now bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure boarding area on-board aircraft. At the checkpoint travelers will be asked to remove the zip-top bag of liquids and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt. X-raying separately will allow security officers to more easily examine the declared items. Note: For a complete list and for the most up-to-date information, check the TSA website at www.tsa.gov or the BAA website at www.baa.com.

This security regimen applies to all domestic and international flights departing U.S. airports. Travelers should, however, check with your MTS TRAVEL Travel Consultant for policies governing flights originating at non-U.S. airports.

While the first several days of the new policies resulted in long lines and delayed flights, as people are becoming aware of the new restrictions and airports have adapted to the new regulations, U.S. operations have returned to normal.

Strict security remains in effect at all UK airports. Passengers at UK airports (and Frankfurt airport) are now permitted to carry ONE item of hand baggage, no larger than:

Next time you travel for business or pleasure and are in a quandary about what to pack, and ask, “Should I pack for sun, rain, or snow?” You can know the answer by logging on to www.weather.com. Click on the “Travel Smart” tab and select “Flights and Business Travel.” Here you will find what the weather is like at the airport, the status of your flight, or you may select “Trip Builder” to check the weather at the multiple destinations you are traveling. Other helpful features include: Travel Tips and Advice, Travel Wise Forecast, and Airport Impact Forecast Maps (showing estimated delay times at airports throughout the U.S.). This is a weather tool worth adding to your Favorites!

The U.S. Department of State began issuing electronic passports to the public on August 14th of this year. These new "e-passports" started being produced at the Colorado Passport Agency and will be expanded to other facilities over the next several months. The Department of State plans to issue tourist electronic passports at all domestic passport agencies by the end of 2006.

These are designed to enhance border security and to facilitate travel. The new U.S. electronic passport is the same as a regular passport with the addition of a small contactless integrated circuit (computer chip) embedded in the back cover. This chip will contain the same data that is on the biographic data page, and will also include a digital image of the person's photograph.

This will fortify security in a number of ways. The passport will use the digital image of the passport photograph as the biometric identifier that will be used with face recognition technology to verify identity. It will also use digital signature technology to verify the authenticity of the data stored on the chip..

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