The Holiday season is here and people are beginning to travel. November 25 is the busiest travel day of the year with over 3 million passengers trying to get home after Thanksgiving. But today, November 21, is the second busiest travel day of the year with over 2.9 million people on the way to their Turkey Day destination. We are aware that this can be a stressful time. Here are a few tips for you to make sure your travel is smooth and stress free.
The two initial screening methods prevalent at US Airports are the Walk-Through Metal Detector (WTMD) and the Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machine. If you set off an alarm from either of these two methods you will be required to do additional screening. The secondary screening options available are as follows:
- You are allowed to conduct a self pat-down of your dastaar, followed by testing of your hands for explosives, and screening by a hand-held metal detector for non-metallic items.
- Or, you can submit to a pat down by the officer if you prefer.
- You have a right to refuse the initial screening of the AIT machine and opt for a pat-down
Before succumbing to secondary screening, you should request that the screening officer change their gloves and swabs prior to testing.
If the secondary testing yields a positive for any explosive residue, you will be subject to a final screening were TSA may ask for you to remove your turban, it should only be conducted if all other screenings have been conducted. You are allowed to ask for a private screening in a separate area.
Three ways that can help reduce chances of setting off an alarm:
- Remove pins from your turban
- When you are in the AIT machine keep your hands up and away from your head.
- Wash your hands thoroughly prior to going through security screening and make sure you have clean fresh clothes to reduce the chances of residue.
Please make sure to document any and all irregularities and report them to SALDEF and also you may contact TSA directly.
Safe Travels and Happy Thanksgiving!!
To make sure your travel is as easy as it can be also remember that to pack smart, don’t gift wrap your presents while in transit, and pack your Kirpan in your checked luggage.