Wednesday, March 29, 2023 
TSA officers at Pittsburgh International Airport provided their top recommendations for spring travel. Firstly, when purchasing a ticket, it is suggested to ensure that the name on your ID matches the name on your boarding pass, even if you commonly use a nickname.
It is advised to wear easily removable shoes to accelerate the checkpoint process and avoid pat-downs, which are not favored by TSA officers. Additionally, empty your pockets of all items, including non-metallic ones like tissues and breath mints while waiting in line.
To prevent contamination, it is preferable to place your phone in your carry-on rather than in a bin with other people’s shoes. Avoid placing small objects directly on the X-ray belt as they may fall between the rollers, and do not put children or pets through the checkpoint X-ray machine.
It is strictly forbidden to bring firearms to a checkpoint, even if you possess a concealed carry permit. Firearms are only allowed in checked baggage if they are unloaded and securely enclosed in a hard-sided locked case. Bringing a bottle of water through the checkpoint is also not permitted, but you may bring an empty or reusable container to fill up after clearing security.
For additional information on what items are permitted and prohibited, the TSA recommends downloading the myTSA app, which provides information on estimated wait times at checkpoints and flight delays. If you want to breeze through the line while keeping your shoes, belt, and light jacket on, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck.
Wednesday, May 31, 2023