Airlines: New rules keep passengers in seats

Associated Press ^ | Dec. 26, 2009 | JOAN LOWY

[Presbyterian Reporter]

Some airlines were telling passengers on Saturday that new government security regulations prohibit them from leaving their seats beginning an hour before landing

The regulations are a response to a suspected terrorism incident on Christmas Day.

Air Canada said in a statement that new rules imposed by the Transportation Security Administration limit on-board activities by passengers and crew in U.S. airspace. The airline said that during the final hour of flight passengers must remain seated. They won't be allowed access to carryon baggage or to have any items on their laps.

Flight attendants on some domestic flights are informing passengers of similar rules. Passengers on a flight from New York to Tampa Saturday morning were also told they must remain in their seats and couldn't have items in their laps, including laptops and pillows.

The TSA declined to confirm the new restrictions.

Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said in a statement Saturday that passengers flying to the U.S. from overseas may notice extra security, but she said the measures "are designed to be unpredictable, so passengers should not expect to see the same thing everywhere."

A transportation security official speaking on condition of anonymity because the official wasn't authorized to speak publicly said passengers traveling internationally could see increased security screening at gates and when they check their bags, as well as additional measures on flights such as stowing carryons and personal items before the plane lands.

A Nigerian passenger on a Northwest Airlines flight from Amsterdam allegedly attempted to start a fire as the plane prepared to land in Detroit on Friday, according to authorities. The incident has sparked a major international terrorism investigation.

Air Canada said it was limiting passengers to one carryon bag in response to a request from the U.S. and Canadian governments.

[TheOldLady]

I’ll never fly again.

Besides, I like driving.

I bet I’m not the only one.

[esquirette]

I was treated so badly in Miami International after a missions trip that I made the same decision. They refuse to profile as they should, and instead make the law abiding people submit to unreasonable measures.

By the time you show up two hours early, wait for your luggage to be delivered, and endure other delays, I figure that a 10 hour drive is just about even money.

[TheOldLady]

Yes.

[acoulterfan]

“What free beverages??? ;-)”

On US Airways returning from Philadelphia to San Diego direct in August I could hardly get up to go the the restroom because they constantly had the beverage carts (One with the free drinks and another with the “pay” snacks) in the aisle!!

[stevie_d_64]

Well, actually that sounds like a good way to keep everyone in their seats...Keep them drunk and fed, and make a little extra coinage on the side...

A win/win for the airlines...