Caleb Tiller , +1 703-684-0836, ext. 138
Courtney Leigh Beisel , +1 703-684-0836, ext. 133
Alexandria, VA (September 25, 2006) – The National Business Travel Association (NBTA) praised the announcement made today by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that it will loosen the ban on liquids and gels in carry-on luggage.
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| Assistant Homeland Security Secretary for TSA, Kip Hawley (left) and Homeland Security Deputy Secretary Michael Jackson (right) |
The modified liquid rules, effective Tuesday, September 26, will allow travelers to pass through security checkpoints and carry on travel-size toiletries in containers of three ounces or less “that fit comfortably in ONE quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag” and enable them to carry on items purchased once inside security, such as beverages.
In a press conference today at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Assistant Homeland Security Secretary for TSA, Kip Hawley, noted that the agency had completed significant research into the threat posed by liquid explosives and acknowledged the need to make travel as easy as possible for passengers within the framework of securing the air travel system. Hawley said, “We now know enough to know the total liquid ban is no longer needed from a security point of view.” (For the complete TSA announcement, see http://www.tsa.gov/press/releases/2006/press_release_09252006.shtm.)
NBTA President & CEO, Suzanne Fletcher said, “While the business travel community understood the need for addressing the threat posed by liquid explosives, many business travelers have been challenged by the total ban on carry-on liquids. They often had to check bags on short trips for which they would not normally check bags, in order to bring toiletry items. NBTA has worked closely with TSA and DHS to ensure the agencies understand the particular challenge the ban posed for business travelers, and we are pleased to see the this adjustment of the rule. The change shows that TSA is listening to passengers and basing its policies on a true risk-management approach to security.”
The National Business Travel Association is the source for critical information on the business travel industry. For more than 35 years, NBTA has dedicated itself to the professional development of its members through advocacy, education and training, and networking opportunities. NBTA represents over 2,700 corporate and government travel managers and travel service providers, who collectively manage and direct more than $170 billion of expenditures within the business travel industry. For more on NBTA, visit www.nbta.org.
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