Delta Air Lines customers originating in Atlanta and Los Angeles, who are checking baggage, will be required to do so a minimum of 45 minutes before their departure time. The change became effective November 1, 2005 and also applies to customers traveling on Song, Delta Connection and code share domestic flights on which Delta is the operating carrier.
Most carriers have changed their free checked baggage allowances to 2 pieces per person, not weighing more than 50 pounds per piece.
Most carriers will include a $25 charge for bags weighing 51-70 pounds.
US Airways has announced its Move Up program, which allows passengers to make confirmed changes to same-day travel, allowing customers to bypass the standby list for a nominal fee. Passengers make a request upon airport check-in for an earlier flight.
Since there are no time restrictions with the Move Up program, customers can select a standby flight departing any time earlier on the same day.
If space is available, a confirmed seat assignment will be provided for only $25 on domestic flights, excluding Hawaii. A $50 fee will be charged for international flights, excluding Europe.
On December 22, 2005, changes to TSA´s security procedures and updates to the prohibited items list became effective. Following a thorough review of security measures, the agency adjusted procedures to focus on areas that pose the greatest risk.
TSA has also added an element of unpredictability to the security strategy in order to deter terrorist attacks on commercial aircraft. To accomplish this objective, Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) will conduct increased random screenings at the security checkpoint.
In addition, small tools (7 inches or less) and scissors (cutting edge of 4 inches or less) will be permitted onboard aircraft so TSOs can focus their efforts on higher threat items.
