TSA: Powders in carry-on bags face extra scrutiny

New TSA?rules are set to make flying in/to the US with unmixed powders that little bit more difficult.

The focus is on containers holding at least 350 milliliters of powder, which is about the size of a can of soda. Starting Wednesday, TSA and airlines are going to step up awareness efforts about the change, urging passengers to pack larger containers in checked luggage and remove smaller containers from carry-on bags for separate screening, similar to small containers of liquids.

The security effort isn’t a ban. But the risk for a traveler returning with a large container of Moroccan spice in a carry-on bag rather than checked luggage is that a checkpoint officer could force the person to throw away a suspicious powder before boarding the plane.

The main security concern is from improvised explosives, but TSA is also concerned about fentanyl or pepper spray in the cabin.

TSA says powders can include items like cosmetics, baby powder and protein or energy powder mixes, among others. Gun powder remains prohibited from all checked or carry-on luggage. source:?source: /u/fastertoday, Reddit.

The rule was passed last year and up to now has only been enforced on domestic flights. From June 30th however; the TSA will ask foreign airports with direct flights into the US to do the same. So if you’re going to America I’d pack those full bags in your hold luggage or prepare to have it taken off you.

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