New TSA screening procedures underway at RIC
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New Transportation Security Administration screening procedures for carry-on electronics, announced by the agency in July during a pilot program conducted at 10 airports, have arrived at Richmond International Airport.
TSA officers now are asking travelers to remove electronics larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bags and place them in a bin with nothing on top or below, similar to how laptops have been screened. The step helps TSA officers obtain a clearer X-ray image.
“Whether you’re flying to, from, or within the United States, TSA is committed to raising the baseline for aviation security by strengthening the overall security of our commercial aviation network to keep flying as a safe option for everyone,” said TSA Deputy Administrator Huban A. Gowadia at the time.
The stronger security measures do not apply to passengers enrolled in TSA Pre Check program who are using TSA Pre Check lanes.
The program allows TSA to focus resources on passengers who may pose a high risk to security while providing expedited screening to those travelers who have been identified as low-risk, trusted travelers.
“Richmond International Airport is supportive of measures to keep the flying public safe,” said Airport president and CEO Jon E. Mathiasen. “We continue to work with TSA to accomplish safe travel in the most expedient manner possible and ask travelers be familiar with screening requirements.”
With the recent change, some periods at RIC – particularly early mornings – have seen extended wait times at the checkpoints. Additionally, travelers should know:
• Travelers are strongly encouraged to check in at least 90 minutes prior to departure. Please note, some airlines recommend checking in two hours prior for domestic flights.
• Once checked in, travelers should proceed directly to the security screening checkpoints.
• Forty minutes prior to departure, travelers should be at their departure gates, ready to board.
Learn more about security screening at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening.
