News Release
For Immediate Release
August 10, 2006
For Additional Information:
Carolyn Casey 360-676-2500/360-303-0518
Bellingham Air Travelers Advised to Arrive Early
Elevated Security Measures at Airport Increase Screening Time
[Bellingham, Wa.] Today the federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) raised the national security threat level at all commercial airports, including Bellingham International Airport. This action was taken in response to information about a potential threat on international flights between Great Britain and the United States.
According to a statement from TSA, there is no indication of any increased threat to flights within the United States. However, as a precaution, TSA has increased security measures for domestic flights as well as for international flights.
The elevated security measures will increase the time it takes to pass through security and Bellingham passengers are urged to arrive early for their flights, to consider checking their baggage rather than carrying it aboard the plane and to remove newly restricted items from carry-on luggage before arriving at the airport.
There have been no Bellingham flight cancellations or delays as a result of the new security measures. It is not yet known how long TSA will keep the new restrictions and higher security levels in effect.
Effective immediately, every piece of carry-on luggage will be hand inspected and passengers may not take liquids, gels or creams through the security checkpoint or on an aircraft. This includes all beverages, shampoo, lotions, creams, toothpaste, gels and any other similar items.
The only exceptions are for passengers with infants or small children who may bring baby formula, breast milk or juice and for passengers with prescription medicine -- if the prescription label matches the name on the passenger ticket. Insulin and essential other non-prescription medicines will be allowed.
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