
New Travel Restrictions After Attempted Terrorist Attack
By Matt J. Weiss, December 29, 2009 @ 12:44 PM (EST)
Source: Nytimes.com
One of the biggest obstacles of an underwater photographer is traveling with large, bulky, fragile and often times bizarre looking gear. Expect this to only get more difficult after the failed terrorist attack on Christmas.
Federal officials have imposed new restrictions on travelers that will effect everyone, especially those of us that like to travel frequently and with crazy amounts of equipment.
The effects of the recent terrorist attack are not clear, as the government has been purposely vague on what the new restrictions will be. The goal is for security to be unpredictable, with different measures being taken at different airports.

Federal officials have imposed new restrictions on travelers that will effect everyone, especially those of us that like to travel frequently and with crazy amounts of equipment.
The effects of the recent terrorist attack are not clear, as the government has been purposely vague on what the new restrictions will be. The goal is for security to be unpredictable, with different measures being taken at different airports.

One rule that could seriously effect an underwater photographer's travel plans is that only one carry-on will be allowed on international flights. Underwater photographers are know for packing in as much equipment as possible into carry-ons, so new measures may have to be taken to ensure fragile photography equipment stays safe while in transit.
Several airlines have released information about their new restrictions,and it seems that passengers on international flights coming into the U.S. will not be able to leave their seats or have any personal items on their

Also, apparently, all carry on luggage on all international flights going to the U.S. will now have two screenings, one at the security check point and another at the gate during boarding. This will obviously slow down the boarding process and has caused American Airlines to suggest passengers leave extra time for screening and boarding.
Expect much more careful inspections and longer lines in upcoming travel plans. Certainly double check your airlines policies before packing for your trip, as they have likely changed since Christmas.
Comments

Jan 25, 2010 7:36 PM
John Kilpatrick wrote:
My carry-on was checked about three times before my return flight from Johannesburg to Washington, but it went smoothly and there wasn't any hassle with size or weight. However, it wasn't stuffed-full since I didn't have many souvenirs besides digital photos.

Jan 26, 2010 1:18 AM
Matt J. Weiss wrote:
Yes, I experienced a similar inconvenience on an international flight going to the U.S. and also I could not leave my seat for the final hour. Overall, I don't think it will drastically be worse, but it will become an even bigger pain...
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