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View Full Version : UPDATED Notice for UK travellers: Massive delays + Hand luggage MUST be checked in


purple_rabbit
Aug 10th, 2006, 03:08 AM
BAA, which owns and operates seven UK airports, including London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted, has released the following statement Thursday morning.

Info on UK flight status (http://www.baa.co.uk/)
U.S. Flight Info (http://www.fly.faa.gov/flyfaa/usmap.jsp)

Update: Massive delays are expected and hundreds of cancellations

Terrorist threat: CRITICAL

Update for travellers departing from Canada:

Toronto Pearson Update on Security Changes
Date of Release: Aug 11, 2006
Responding to the alleged terrorist threats in the United Kingdom, the Government of Canada has implemented enhanced aviation security measures at Toronto Pearson and at all airports across Canada.

The following security measures have been put in place by the federal government until further notice:

* For all flights (Domestic, U.S. and International) liquids or gels in containers of any size are not permitted to be brought onboard by passengers; this includes liquids or gels in carry-on baggage;

Liquids or gels in containers of any size include: all beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, toothpaste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency. Passengers should pack liquids or gels in checked baggage.

Passengers may bring aboard baby formula, breast milk, or juice if a baby or small child is travelling. Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket, insulin and essential other non-prescription medicines are allowed.

Duty Free stores continue to operate with restrictions on the sale of liquid products such as alcohol and perfume.

The Government of Canada advises all air travellers to keep these measures in mind when preparing for a flight, and to contact their carrier regarding any possible delays.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority continues to work closely with the federal government to minimize disruptions to the travelling public. Operational delays have been minimal at Toronto Pearson.

UPDATED notice to passengers from CATSA:

REMINDER - Please note that portable computers and other electronic devices such as CD players and cellular phones are permitted in carry-on baggage. It is also important to note that outside of yesterday's restrictions of liquids and gels, all other permitted and prohibited items in carry-on and checked baggage remain the same.

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) is Canada’s aviation security authority. CATSA’s primary responsibility is to enhance the security of the travelling public by ensuring that threat items are not carried onto an aircraft. For information about items that are not permitted in carry-on or checked baggage, please click on www.catsa.gc.ca/english/travel_voyage/list.htm.

All passengers should be aware that no liquids or gels will be permitted in carry-on luggage on all flights departing from Canadian airports. Exceptions include the following:

1. Baby formula, breast milk, or juice if a baby or small child is traveling;
2. Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket;
3. Insulin and essential other non-prescription medication.

Passengers boarding flights to the United States will also be requested to remove footwear for additional screening.

The Government of Canada advises all air travellers to keep these measures in mind when preparing for a flight. And advises passengers to pack all non-essential items in their checked baggage and arrive at the airport well in advance of their flight.

Passengers should contact their carrier regarding any possible delays or should they have any questions regarding the status of their flights.


Message from Jacques Duchesneau President and CEO, CATSA

Following the developments in the United Kingdom on August 10, 2006, CATSA, cooperating closely with Transport Canada, proactively put in place several additional preventive, preemptive security measures at Canadian airports.

By 03:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on August 10, 2006, CATSA's Security Operations Centre was fully operational and making decisions on the actions to be taken. At most airports across the country, the new security measures were already in effect for the first flights of the day. This quick action led to minimal delays for passengers.

CATSA continues to monitor the situation very closely. While there is no evidence of a specific threat against Canada, we remain on high alert. The safety and security of air travelers is CATSA's number one priority and we must always err on the side of caution.

These new security measures have been put in place for an initial 72 hours. In the coming hours and days, we will receive more information on this alleged plot and will continually reassess the situation and respond accordingly.

CATSA is therefore taking all measures necessary to protect the traveling public.

My message is: stay calm, remain ever-vigilant and report any security concerns. Expect additional security screening. Pack lightly, if possible, leave liquids and gels at home or ensure they are placed in checked-luggage, and cooperate with screening personnel.

CATSA Screening Officers are highly-trained and are doing their job well. They are there to keep you safe and to support you as you pass through the security screening process.
It is safe to fly. Enjoy your trip!
Update for travellers departing or connecting in the UK

"Following this morning's police action, the Department for Transport have asked all UK airports to apply additional security measures designed to ensure passenger safety.

These measures will prevent passengers from carrying hand luggage into the cabin of an aircraft with the following exceptions (which must be placed in a plastic bag):

# Pocket size wallets and pocket size purses plus contents (for example money, credit cards, identity cards etc (not handbags);

# Travel documents essential for the journey (for example passports and travel tickets);

# Prescription medicines and medical items sufficient and essential for the flight (e.g. diabetic kit), except in liquid form unless verified as authentic;

# Spectacles and sunglasses, without cases;

# Contact lens holders, without bottles of solution;

# For those traveling with an infant: baby food, milk (the contents of each bottle must be tasted by the accompanying passenger);

# Sanitary items sufficient and essential for the flight (nappies, wipes, creams and nappy disposal bags);

# Female sanitary items sufficient and essential for the flight, if unboxed (e.g. tampons, pads, towels and wipes) tissues (unboxed) and/or handkerchiefs;

# Keys (but no electrical key fobs)

All passengers must be hand searched, and their footwear and all the items they are carrying must be X-ray screened.

Pushchairs and walking aids must be X-ray screened, and only airport-provided wheelchairs may pass through the screening point.

In addition to the above, all passengers boarding flights to the USA and all the items they are carrying, including those acquired after the central screening point, must be subjected to secondary search at the boarding gate. Any liquids discovered must be removed from the passenger.

BAA wish to stress that these are precautionary measures. During the next few days airports will be extremely busy, therefore only those intending to fly should come to the airport. Passengers are also asked to use public transport to get to and from the airport wherever possible.

Passengers are asked to be patient while these additional security measures are put in place. Delays are likely and passengers are therefore asked to allow extra time for their journey."

Bmp5
Aug 10th, 2006, 03:24 AM
What about laptops,books,..........?

I am too tired to read the post again.

Carebear
Aug 10th, 2006, 07:34 AM
I heard on the news this morning that laptops, cameras, cell phones, MP3 players and any other electronic devices previously allowed as carry-on items must now be checked in if you must bring them with you on your travels. No exceptions allowed.

HighFlyer
Aug 10th, 2006, 07:48 AM
everything bigger than a thin wallet must be checked in. nothing can be in your pockets, so your wallet and passport must be carried in a transparent bag.

HighFlyer
Aug 10th, 2006, 10:04 AM
all liquids have now been banned on US and UK flights except:

-Baby formula, breast milk, or juice if a baby or small child is traveling;
-Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket;
-Insulin and essential other non-prescription medication.
http://www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca/english/media/rel_comm/2006-08-10.htm

and

NO LIQUIDS OR GELS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED IN CARRY-ON BAGGAGE. ITEMS MUST BE IN CHECKED BAGGAGE. This includes all beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, tooth paste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency.
http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/threat-change.shtm

MkmBandit
Aug 10th, 2006, 10:37 AM
damn what is this world coming to >:(

concidering i'd be going through heathrow, i dont think i can put up with 22hours of travel without my lappy

YLSF
Aug 10th, 2006, 11:15 AM
Boy.. Just heard about it on the radio... Crazy.... No liquids! Now I am wondering what the plan was by these terorrists.... is it written up yet?

pfdude
Aug 10th, 2006, 11:54 AM
Now even on domestic flights

WestJet Travel Advisory
Thursday, August 10, 2006 - 08:33 a.m. MDT
Due to Transport Canada restrictions, at this time no liquids, gels or creams will be allowed onboard any aircraft, either on your person or in carry-on luggage. These items are allowed in checked luggage only. The only exceptions are prescription medications and sustenance for infants or youths. Any of the above mentioned items will be confiscated at pre-board security screening.

This currently applies to all flights destined for the U.S., and as of 10 a.m. MDT all domestic flights (flights within Canada) will also have the same restrictions. These restrictions will be in place for the next 72 hours.

LNahid2000
Aug 10th, 2006, 11:54 AM
Damn, that sucks. My sister is coming back from Gatwick on the 25th.

inferno_gn
Aug 10th, 2006, 01:59 PM
Hi there,

I think this is getting ******** and out of hand. Might as well banned everything and just go in the plane butt-naked. Hell, might as well not fly, as everything, even the human body, can be a weapon.

Ju Leon...

Pete Jones
Aug 10th, 2006, 02:23 PM
It really has gone too far.

Every time something like this happens, panic mode sets in. Honestly, the terrorists (whever they are) must be laughing themselves silly watching the reactions every time there is a threat of some kind.

I thought it was getting silly when people were being asked to remove their shoes at the security gates.

Why don't we just force everybody to show up naked.

Sorry, but for all intents and purposes, the terrorists have won.

--Pete

HighFlyer
Aug 10th, 2006, 02:31 PM
Sorry, but for all intents and purposes, the terrorists have won.

Indeed.... so instead of whatever contraband being carried into the cabin, they are now stored in the cargo hold. I feel safer already :rolleyes:

inferno_gn
Aug 10th, 2006, 03:15 PM
Hi there,

Oh, come to think of it, they say no gels. Does that included breast implants? :D

Ju Leon...

purple_rabbit
Aug 10th, 2006, 03:49 PM
This sucks, I have to transit through Heathrow Saturday argh....

gqbluez
Aug 10th, 2006, 04:13 PM
So we are doing the same thing in Canada now? I have to fly next week out of YYZ to YVR and I have two laptops I wanted to bring on board flying AC. Does this mean I have to check this now? Because if it does I just maxed out and then some my weight allowance...

This is truly annoying as just two days ago I was already planning on buying some food and drinks on the ground and bringing them onboard the plane...I guess I have to pay ac if i wanna eat haha..

Squiggles
Aug 10th, 2006, 04:36 PM
So we are doing the same thing in Canada now? I have to fly next week out of YYZ to YVR and I have two laptops I wanted to bring on board flying AC. Does this mean I have to check this now? Because if it does I just maxed out and then some my weight allowance...

This is truly annoying as just two days ago I was already planning on buying some food and drinks on the ground and bringing them onboard the plane...I guess I have to pay ac if i wanna eat haha..


The rules pertaining to liquids in carry-on luggage are, at the moment, said to only last 72 hours. Also, today the restaurants (Tim's etc.) were closed on the security side of the airport (after security screening), so if you want a drink before you board get it before going through security.

nano
Aug 10th, 2006, 05:22 PM
So we are doing the same thing in Canada now? I have to fly next week out of YYZ to YVR and I have two laptops I wanted to bring on board flying AC. Does this mean I have to check this now? Because if it does I just maxed out and then some my weight allowance...

This is truly annoying as just two days ago I was already planning on buying some food and drinks on the ground and bringing them onboard the plane...I guess I have to pay ac if i wanna eat haha.. AC will have to give free food now if you cant bring a drink onboard all flights

HighFlyer
Aug 10th, 2006, 05:43 PM
AC will have to give free food now if you cant bring a drink onboard all flights
non-alcoholic drinks are already complimentary

mrwinky
Aug 10th, 2006, 05:57 PM
Goddamit, I fly to Vegas Monday AM, I want my Timmy's on the PLANE, and my MP3 player :(


Winky

bionicbadger
Aug 10th, 2006, 06:11 PM
Wow that sucks for people with colostomy bags....

tlamm
Aug 10th, 2006, 07:23 PM
Wow that sucks for people with colostomy bags....

dont be so ignorent.

tlamm
Aug 10th, 2006, 07:24 PM
Goddamit, I fly to Vegas Monday AM, I want my Timmy's on the PLANE, and my MP3 player :(


Winky

Could be worse, you could blow up on the way.

nuropa
Aug 10th, 2006, 09:49 PM
does this mean no breast implants?

canabiz
Aug 10th, 2006, 10:03 PM
I am scheduled to flight from Japan to U.S. sometimes next week, what does this mean for me ?

Please update thanks.

HighFlyer
Aug 10th, 2006, 10:14 PM
I am scheduled to flight from Japan to U.S. sometimes next week, what does this mean for me ?

www.tsa.gov

canabiz
Aug 10th, 2006, 10:41 PM
Thanks HF for the link

Damn those terrorists but life goes on

pfdude
Aug 11th, 2006, 09:16 AM
I got stuck in the security line-up for 90 minutes at the Montreal airport. That was bad. The line-up went all the way down to the airport entrance, curved around and headed toward the international check-in sections.

Everybody was tossing out their liquids/creams/gels in advance yet security was still slow as hell. Once I reached the screening area I saw no extra security measures in place. Everything was normal except security was slooowwwwwwwwwwwww. I had a bag of electronics and tonnes of loose crap yet they never even checked it by hand so I have no idea why the process was so slow.

HighFlyer
Aug 11th, 2006, 11:00 AM
Can't help but think that the major benefactors of all of this are companies like Colgate, Procter and Gamble, Gillette. My colleague reported that garbage bins at YYZ T1 were overflowing with tubes of toothpaste, lipstick, mouthwash, gel deodorants.... you name it.

NLI10D
Aug 11th, 2006, 10:51 PM
if something were to happen to the laptop you checked in who's responsible?

HighFlyer
Aug 12th, 2006, 12:50 AM
if something were to happen to the laptop you checked in who's responsible?
No one. The airlines will point the finger at CATSA/TSA/BAA. CATSA/TSA/BAA will point the finger at the airlines.

Laptops are only banned as carry-on baggage on ex-UK flights at this point.

batman321123
Aug 12th, 2006, 01:22 AM
So you can still bring food right? Airplane food is so damn bad, I'm forced to bring my own.

Bmp5
Aug 12th, 2006, 03:20 AM
Any updates?

purple_rabbit
Aug 12th, 2006, 03:31 AM
So you can still bring food right? Airplane food is so damn bad, I'm forced to bring my own.

If you are departing or connecting in UK, the answer is no. You will be allowed to bring the items described as "exceptions" in the OP

If you are departing from Canada, yes you can, as long as there are no liquids involved.

inferno_gn
Aug 12th, 2006, 03:04 PM
Hi there,

I can't wait that they banned clothes. :D

Ju Leon...

NorthYorker
Aug 12th, 2006, 10:06 PM
My cousin just flew to Europe through London. All airports are zoo. Massive delays and there's no semblance of schedule. Security people are loose :) Anyway, prepare for delays, but eventually they'll fly you to your destination.

HighFlyer
Aug 13th, 2006, 03:43 PM
shoe carnival expanded.... removal now mandatory at US airports.

http://www.tsa.gov

HighFlyer
Aug 13th, 2006, 09:44 PM
UK allows carry-ons including laptops

http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_about/documents/page/dft_about_612280.hcsp

Each passenger is permitted to carry ONE item of cabin baggage through the airport security search point. The dimensions of this item must not exceed: a maximum length of 45 cm, width of 35 cm and depth of 16 cm (17.7"×13.7"×6.2" approx) (including wheels, handles, side pockets etc.). Other bags, such as handbags, may be carried within the single item of cabin baggage. All items carried by passengers will be x-ray screened.

No liquids of any type are permitted through the airport security search point, other than the following items:

* Prescription medicines in liquid form sufficient and essential for the flight (e.g. diabetic kit), as long as verified as authentic
* Baby milk and liquid baby food (the contents of each bottle or jar must be tasted by the accompanying passenger).

NOTE: The definition of liquids includes gels, pastes, lotions, liquid/solid mixtures and the contents of pressurised containers, e.g. toothpaste, hair gel, drinks, soups, syrups, perfume, deodorant, shaving foam, aerosols, etc.

To help their progress through search points, passengers are encouraged not to include items capable of containing liquids (e.g. bottles, flasks, tubes, cans, plastic containers etc.) in their cabin baggage.

All laptops and large electrical items (e.g. large hairdryer) must be removed from the bag and placed in a tray so that such items neither obscure nor are obscured by the bag.

Pushchairs and walking aids are permitted but must be x-ray screened. Wheelchairs are permitted but must be thoroughly searched.

In addition to the above, passengers boarding flights to the USA and items they are carrying, including those acquired after the central screening point, will be subjected to secondary search at the gate. Any liquids discovered will be removed from the passenger.

raptorsfever
Aug 13th, 2006, 10:20 PM
I'm leaving on Friday to London Gatwick Airport from Toronto Airport. All of this news makes me not want to go there at all. It seems kinda scary!

gqbluez
Aug 13th, 2006, 11:13 PM
I'm leaving on Friday to London Gatwick Airport from Toronto Airport. All of this news makes me not want to go there at all. It seems kinda scary!

Actually if anything the news is positive considering its only been what 3 days since they implimented the no liquids policy and now they are allowing laptops and electronics now. Its not too much of an inconvenience when you really think about it. Just arrive at the airport a little earlier than you would normally and make sure youre not a terrorist! lol.

raptorsfever
Aug 13th, 2006, 11:55 PM
Actually if anything the news is positive considering its only been what 3 days since they implimented the no liquids policy and now they are allowing laptops and electronics now. Its not too much of an inconvenience when you really think about it. Just arrive at the airport a little earlier than you would normally and make sure youre not a terrorist! lol.

I'll be staying there for 2 weeks! :| I don't know how I could fit everything in my luggage with my 23kg baggage allowance. I think checking in Toronto will be a little better compare to checking in London. I'm just afraid that they won't let me carry-on my laptop on the way back. I will be totally upset if that happens! Anyway, I'll call my airline to double check everything. :) Btw, I'm not a terrorist. :| That shouldn't be a problem for me! lol.

HighFlyer
Aug 14th, 2006, 12:16 AM
Actually if anything the news is positive considering its only been what 3 days since they implimented the no liquids policy and now they are allowing laptops and electronics now. Its not too much of an inconvenience when you really think about it.
It still is. Most of my business trips are a day or two in length, so that it would be impractical to bring anything more than a small rollerboard. Since the laptop goes into the rollerboard, that means that it can't be checked in. So this would mean a sidetrip to a Walgreens/Shoppers upon arrival to buy a new tube of toothpaste and a stick of deodorant.... only to have to throw it out a day later before going to the next stop. We have cancelled 3 business trips so far for the month of Aug and will curtail more travel where meetings could be done via videoconferencing if this stupidity continues.

HighFlyer
Aug 14th, 2006, 12:35 AM
I'll be staying there for 2 weeks! :| I don't know how I could fit everything in my luggage with my 23kg baggage allowance. I think checking in Toronto will be a little better compare to checking in London. I'm just afraid that they won't let me carry-on my laptop on the way back. I will be totally upset if that happens! Anyway, I'll call my airline to double check everything.
Airlines (AC, at least), are allowing an extra piece of checked baggage at airports where carry-ons are not allowed. If the BAA chooses to ban carry-ons at LGW again, your airline should be flexible on the checked baggage allowance. But then this doesn't solve the laptop issue. Best bet is to leave it at home unless it is really necessary to travel with it.

kiasu
Aug 14th, 2006, 10:37 AM
I am flying to Msia end of next month..hopefully everything back to normal that time....