How air travel has been affected by the New York terrorist attacks Sept 2001

21/9/01

The terrorist attacks in New York have led to a worldwide review of airport security. While most UK- and Europe-based airlines, including British Airways, have NOT increased their check-in times (please check with individual airlines before to confirm), customers are generally advised to get to the airport at the check in time indicated on their itinerary to allow for extra security measures. Arriving at the airport much earlier than the advised times has caused additional delays, and so airlines have advised passengers NOT to do this, at this point in time. Customers are also advised that increased vigilance could lead to some flight delays.

In addition, all passengers’ baggage (both hold and hand baggage) will be subject to greater security screening throughout the journey. Some airlines have stated that check-in agents may require that all items of hand baggage be checked in. If not checked in hand luggage may be limited to one small item or briefcase or ladies' handbag. This is to facilitate the security staff who are undertaking additional checks of all hand luggage. They urge customers that "In the interest of security and minimising delays we would ask passengers to please, please limit their main luggage to one suitcase. If it is not vital please don't bring it."

Despite the tragic events on 11 September and the inevitable stepping-up of security, reports indicate that, even in America, the general mood is that people are determined to continue travelling. According to a survey issued 14 September by travel marketing specialists Yesawich, Pepperdine and Brown, nearly two-thirds of American travellers, both business and leisure, say their travel plans will not be affected by the events in New York and Washington 11 Sept. "The survey results clearly signal that people intend to keep on travelling," confirmed Peter Yesawich, president and CEO of the marketing services firm.

Questions and Answers about air travel following terrorist attacks in US

Q: Should I allow more time to check-in from the UK?

A: Yes, while most airlines have not increased check-in times, all of them are advising passengers to allow more time than normal to check-in (Britannia airlines for example is telling customers to arrive 3 hours before departure if possible) because of increased security measures. It is NOT advised however to arrive earlier than indicated by your airline since this practice in itself has caused delays and congestion

Q: I’m flying to Europe next week, how will my journey be affected?

A: All UK and European airlines say they are determined to keep delays to a minimum although increased security may lead to some disruption and delays. Inter European flights are running largely to schedule at the moment however. Your hand luggage is likely to be subject to strict limitations – see below. But otherwise you will be largely unaffected.

Q: Can I take hand luggage on the flight?

A: Most airlines (please check with individual carriers) are urging passengers to pack non-essential items of hand luggage in hold baggage. Travel documents, valuables, medicines, and cigarette lighters are permitted on board the aircraft with you.

Q: What about baby items?

A: You will be allowed to carry these with you but please restrict them to essential items

Q: Are electrical items allowed in hold baggage?

A: Yes

Q: Can I take laptop, mobile phone, camera, or camcorder in cabin?

A: Yes, these are permitted but they need to be available for inspection. All electronic equipment may be subject to x-ray examination.

Q: I’m flying to the US shortly – what changes in security measures have already been made?

A: Many changes are already in effect – armed security specialists will be deployed on selected flights, searches will be more intensive and there will be more random searches. If you have e tickets, your will still need your passport to travel on domestic flights. Off airport check in (such as Orlando) has been suspended, but the sites can still be used for seat assignment and the issue of boarding passes.

Q: Will my travel insurance cover me for any delays or cancellations?

A: Individual policies vary. Please check with your insurance company prior to travelling.

Hand luggage

Passengers are advised to use their common sense with regard to items to take on board the aircraft but the following are NOT permitted on board the aircraft under any circumstances

• Any sort of knife with blade of any length
• Household cutlery
• Paper knives
• Toy or replica guns
• Scissors or nail clippers
• Knitting needles
• Cricket bats, pool cues etc

Further information

• For more detailed information on individual airlines, passengers are strongly advised to call the airline prior to departure.
• Before flying within or to the United States, contact your travel agent for the latest in travel security measures.
  
• Passengers are also advised to check their flight’s status before leaving home
• Most US-bound flights from the UK are now back on schedule although the US domestic flight schedule is still significantly affected with some airlines cancelling or scaling down their operations. For further information www.airwise.com
• Inter European flights are generally running to schedule
• Families planning travel to NYC or Washington, DC will be updated on closings or sight changes at www.visitnyc.com and www.washington.org