TSA Approves Use of Tamper-Evident Bags for Duty Free Liquids for Flights Leaving the U.S.

Press Release

May 1, 2008

TSA Public Affairs

WASHINGTON - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today its approval of security tamper-evident bags for the transportation of duty-free liquids, purchased post-TSA security, on flights departing the United States for international destinations. Tamper-evident bags must meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines.

“The use of tamper-evident bags is another step in harmonizing security measures with our international partners,” said TSA Administrator Kip Hawley.

Tamper-evident bags are for passengers departing the United States who have purchased duty-free liquids in the secure area of U.S. airports. Tamper-evident bags will not be accepted in the United States at security checkpoints. International travelers arriving in the United States are reunited with their checked bags and have the opportunity to store liquid duty-free items before their next flight. Travelers exiting the United States, arriving at a non-U.S. international airport, and continuing on to a final international destination may not be provided this same opportunity as their bags go directly to their final destination.

The use of tamper-evident bags on U.S.-departing flights is an additional security measure that will align with European Union security protocols and will reduce the number of passengers who surrender duty-free liquids when transferring to European or other international airports. This is part of ongoing TSA efforts to harmonize security measures with transportation security partners around the world.

Vendors of duty free liquids will voluntarily begin using these bags during the coming days and weeks.