Air Travel
TSA has to screen everyone, regardless of age (even babies), before they can go through the security checkpoint in order to ensure the security of all travelers.
TSA will not ask travelers to do anything that will separate them from their child or children.
TSA specially trains Transportation security officers (TSOs) and they understand travelers’ concern for their children. TSOs will approach children gently and treat them with respect. If a child becomes uncomfortable or upset, security officers will consult parents about the best way to relieve the child's concern.
Passengers should NEVER leave babies in an infant carrier while it goes through the X-ray machine.
As part of our risk-based, intelligence-driven approach to security, TSA recently implemented modified checkpoint screening procedures for passengers 12 and under. These new screening procedures include allowing multiple passes through the walk through metal detector and advanced imaging technology to clear any alarms as well as the greater use of explosives trace detection technology. Passengers 12 and under are also now able to leave their shoes on. To learn more about these procedures, click here.
TSA recommends that children who can walk without assistance should go through the metal detector separately from their parent or guardian. If parents are carrying their child through the metal detector and the alarm sounds, the officer will have to additionally screen both the passenger and their child. If a baby is carried through the metal detector in a carrier or sling, additional screening may be required regardless if there is an alarm or not.
TSA uses advanced imaging technology (AIT) to safely screen passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats without physical contact in order to keep the traveling public safe. Any passenger capable of assuming and holding the AIT stance for 5 seconds is eligible for AIT screening. Parents carrying infants or children will not be screened by the imaging technology. Parents accompanying children may opt out of imaging technology screening to prevent separation of family.
AIT screening is optional for all passengers. Those passengers who opt out of AIT screening with receive alternative screening, to include a thorough pat-down. To learn more about AIT, click here.
Medically necessary liquids and gels, including medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice, are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces (100ml) and are not required to be in a zip-top bag. Officers may ask travelers to open these items to conduct additional screening and passengers should declare them for inspection at the checkpoint. Click here to learn more about 3-1-1
All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in 3.4 ounce (100ml) or smaller containers. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste tubes rolled up are not allowed. Each container must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller.
All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in 3.4 ounce (100ml) or smaller containers. Larger containers that are half-full or toothpaste tubes rolled up are not allowed. Each container must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller.
All liquids, gels and aerosols must be placed in a single, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. Gallon size bags or bags that are not zip-top such as fold-over sandwich bags are not allowed. Each traveler can use only one, quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag.
Each traveler must remove their quart-sized plastic, zip-top bag from their carry-on and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt for X-ray screening. X-raying separately will allow TSA security officers to more easily examine the declared items.
Learn more by getting the 3-1-1 on Carry-ons
Passengers should make sure they understand what they can and cannot bring aboard a flight. Permitted and prohibited items - What can I bring?
Passengers should only carry on the liquids and gels needed for they and their infant/toddler’s immediate comfort. Passengers should pack larger volumes needed for a trip in their checked bag.
Passengers can read more on traveling with Children with Disabilities.
