To help travelers get the information they might need to get through the security checkpoint, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) launched the MyTSA mobile web app and iPhone app.
The applications feature tools such like “Airport Status” providing general airport conditions and delays for U.S. airports and “TSA Guide” including information on TSA’s liquids rules, information on IDs, and tips for travelers with children and those with special needs.
A very useful tool is “Can I Bring”, designed to answer the most commonly asked questions to TSA’s Contact Center about items passengers want to bring onto a plane. Just enter the item you want to pack, and the tool will tell you if it’s permitted and which bag you should put it in.
Here are TSA tips on how to better use the tool:
- Just type the item, for example, “baseball bat” – don’t include “my,” “a.”
- Only enter one item at a time.
- Make sure you’ve spelled the item correctly.
- Enter “deodorant” instead of “Old Spice Deodorant.” In most cases, avoid brand names.
- Instead of typing a general item like “food,” be more specific and type “apple,” “sandwich,” or “yogurt.”
The app also enables travelers to see wait time information posted by other travelers, and return the favor by posting their wait time.
To get the iPhone app, you can download MyTSA on iTunes for free, or look for it on the USA.gov Apps gallery. You can find MyTSA on your smart phone at www.tsa.gov/mobile.
(source)