TSA To Allow Pocket Knives In Flight.

by:  Trent Pickle

          Beginning April 25th, the Transportation Security Administration will lift it's ban on pocket knives.  For the first time since September 11, 2001, pocket knives under 6 centimeters, or 2.36 inches, will be permitted past the security check point and onto passenger aircraft.  This move comes after a T.S.A. group declared small pocket knives to pose no severe threat to aviation security.

The T.S.A. will also lift the ban on other items such as golf clubs, hockey sticks, and lacrosse sticks.  All containers of liquids over 4 ounces, box cutters, baseball bats, and scissors will remain on the T.S.A's list of contraband.  Passengers found to be possessing these items in their carry-on luggage will have them confiscated and risk being subjugated to additional security screening.


Shortly after the announcement by the T.S.A, the Flight Attendants Coalition Union, an umbrella organization consisting of the five major airline employee unions criticized the T.S.A's decision stating it is "poor and short sighted."

Many flight attendants are concerned of the decision since flight attendants are perceived as the first line of defense on board commercial flights.  The possibility of another 9/11-style attack isn't the only concern of flight attendants, but also the possibility of an increase of in-flight incursions by intoxicated or irate passengers.

The T.S.A's lift on the banning of pocket knives comes as the administration announces cut-backs in the number of security agents staffed at airports throughout the U.S.

For more information on the T.S.A. and for items permitted or prohibited past airport security, visit the T.S.A. website.