"After September 11th, the airline industry was forced to change the way they operate in the airports around the nation. The traveler needs to be aware of the changes made and what they can do to make their trip smoother," says Legislator Vincent T. Muscarella (R-West Hempstead). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has made sweeping changes to security and boarding procedures for all airports inside the United States. These changes have been made to ensure safety for all passengers and crew flying from American airports. "People should not be fearful of flying around the nation or world, but they do however need to be aware of the changes because they are all aimed at making every traveler's experience a safe one," adds Legislator Muscarella.

Here are a few important tips being offered by the FAA to ensure a safe and comfortable flight:

• Absolutely no knives of any kind will be allowed onto an aircraft. In addition, all sharp objects such as metal nail files, tweezers, corkscrews, scissors, or razors must be placed into checked baggage; they cannot be brought onto the plane with your carry-on luggage.
• Passengers are allowed only one carry-on bag on airlines. All other baggage must be checked.
• Curbside check-in is no longer available at all airports. Contact your airline carrier to see if this is an option for your flight.
• Only ticketed passengers will now be allowed past the security checkpoints on the way to the flight gates.
• Do not be alarmed if a screener asks to check your baggage. They are doing it for your safety and the safety of your fellow passengers.
• Do not leave your bags unattended in the airport. They will be taken away by security if you do.
• All passengers must carry their government issued photo identification for check in (i.e. driver license, passport, military ID card).
• Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport and go through the security checkpoints.

Check the Federal Aviation Administration web site for more information at www.faa.gov

Have a great trip!