The Truth About Laptops, Cell Phones, and the TSA

Friday, August 11 ,2006 Filed in: Business

As a person living in target number one (Washington, D.C.) the news of a recently foiled terrorist attack greatly bothered me. As the frequent business traveler, I was stymied by the news reports that all sorts of items such as laptops, cell phones, and iPods were being banned. I thought... how could they? Could you imagine a flight where no business traveler got any work done no child could watch a movie, those of us who like quiet time couldn't ignore the world by drowning it out with an iPod?

I am NOT being trite. I live in DC... worked blocks away from the Pentagon. I cringe when our President makes statements such as this, that reinforce hate and stereotypes (and put my family and friends at risk). I flew immediately after the first attacks, and continue to fly multiple times each month. But no technology on flights? We're supposed to check all of our laptops so they come out into a baggage claim area where there is no security or anyone checking tags? So they can get thrown around, exposed to harsh temperatures, and you can't get a claim to cover any real amount of damage.

Talk about a way to totally stifle the American economy (besides over-priced fossil fuels).

So... I did what any tech-loving person would do and turned to the Internet. Despite SEVERAL stories alluding that this was the case... I visited the TSA for the real answer.

Question: Media have also reported that laptops, cell phones and electronic items are no longer allowed. Is that true?

Answer: No. TSA continues to allow laptop computers, cell phones and other electronic items.

Note the phrase “continues to allow.” Lets hope they continue to continue. You can sign up here to be notified of any changes to the ruling. They are saying to arrive at least two hours early though... and keep your bags uncluttered.

So... there you go... the truth (with my opinionated comments thrown in).