These are 17 tips to help you stay safe while flying abroad or domestically. It is important for air travelers to be alert and aware of what is happening around them. Although it’s been several years since the Sept 11th hijackings, terrorist attacks against air travelers are still a threat. You can’t forget the bustle and bustle at an airport. This is an ideal place for professional thieves or criminals to break into.
1. Keep your photo identification handy.
You must have photo identification if you don’t have one. Two pieces of other identification are required. One must be issued by the government authority. Minors do not have to show identification. In some cases, additional security checks and searches may be required to verify that you have the proper identification. You may be denied entry to certain airlines if you don’t have proper identification. International flights require that airlines collect your full name, contact number and contact information.
2. Spend some extra time with yourself during busy hours or while traveling.
For elderly, disabled, or young children, allow yourself enough time to navigate through busy airports and make arrangements with airport staff.
3. You must not park your vehicle and leave it unattended in front of the terminal.
Airport parking regulations are strictly enforced. Your vehicle could be ticketed quickly and towable. You should park in designated, well-lit areas. You will be more comfortable in a lot or garage that is well-populated.
4. Find out what you have with you.
You should always keep your bags safe at all times in the airport, shops and lavatories. Do not accept packages from strangers, or people you may have had a casual conversation. Prepare to answer questions about the person who packed your bags, and whether they were left unattended. Terrorists and criminals can use passengers unaware of their identities to transport bombs or other dangerous items onboard aircrafts. Previous history has shown that they either deceive passengers into carrying packages or slip items into unprotected bags. Airport security personnel can help you if you are unsure.
5. Do not leave packages unattended
Report any unattended luggage, bag, or package to the security personnel at the airport immediately.
6. Do not fool around.
Do not joke about carrying a gun, bomb or other weapon. These words are known to be a trigger for security personnel. The punishment can be severe and include time in prison, large fines and penalties.
7. You should prepare to have your bag and luggage searched.
Hand-searching of checked and carry-on bags is required, particularly if the airline security personnel are unable to determine its contents by X-ray machines. Keep gifts unwrapped until after you arrive at your destination.
If X-ray machines fail to identify the contents, security personnel at an airline will open it.
8. Firearms and hazardous products should be left at home.
It is not permissible to transport hazardous items on an aircraft. You should not carry fireworks, firearms, flammable material, household cleaners, pressurized containers, or other hazardous items onboard aircraft. Violations to hazardous material regulations could result in severe civil penalties and possibly national legal action.
9. Take note of your surroundings.
Pay attention to your surroundings and others when you’re at an airport terminal. Particularly if you notice situations or activities that are not typical.
10. Report strange or unusual activity.
You should inform security personnel if you spot anything at the airport, or in an aircraft, that is unusual or out of place.
11. Do not be a threat to anyone.
Anyone can commit violent acts against the air transportation system if they are of any age, gender, or nationality. It is not fair to assume that a particular type of person will cause damage just because they appear outwardly.
12. Avoid Suspicious Circumstances
Avoid being exposed to potential dangers at the airport. Before you contact authorities, get out of the way. Inform others in the area if necessary. These include unaccompanied packages, suspicious behavior or unusual disturbances.
13. Keep your seat belt fastened while flying.
If there is unexpected turbulence, make sure your safety belt is securely fastened while you are seated.
14. Concentrate on what the flight attendants are saying.
Safety is the number one reason that flight attendants board an aircraft. In emergency situations or possible crises, they can be contacted for assistance.
15. Keep in mind the Basic Rules for Wireless Devices.
Cell phones, pagers and other wireless communication devices are allowed in the United States until the passenger doors close before takeoff. These devices should not be used for routine communications until the passengers doors are opened at takeoff. You should check with your airline for specific rules.
16. You can use a wireless device in an emergency.
Before you use any communication device, even the airplane’s seatback phones, in the event of an emergency situation, it is important to take stock. You can use your personal cell phone to reach help if necessary. The FBI can be reached at 1-866-483-5137 in the United States. Contact the appropriate department or office of your airline if you are a flight attendant, or any other employee.
17. Get along.
It is better to share information with other passengers and crew members if there are dangers on the aircraft.
You can travel with peace of mind by taking all the precautions necessary to ensure your safety and security.