Airports, what do we do now!!!!

[neil_r]

It is really worth getting this into context. I fly a lot and I fly to countries that do not have a good reputation for baggage handling (I always have a wry chuckle at the baggage conveyer at Delhi international because it always has the odd stray wheel, handle, or lid circulating forlornly before any luggage appears) I check my camera gear and to date I have not lost anything. I had some slight damage to a laptop but that was due to me not packing it properly. I check my EOS 1 bodies, 600, 100-400, 70-200 and many smaller lenses as well as a load of other stuff including video equipment and to date I have had no problems at all. Were I to have problems, it is insured. Granted that this insurance will be of no help in the short term I still recon that I would rather loose my equipment that be blown up with it.

N

[BIG H]

I'm wondering - Is the restriction on all photographic equipment - or just the electronic parts like flash and batteries. Could you still take your lenses on board in your carry-on?

[SoaringUSAEagle]

I havent ever traveled with my photo gear yet. I dont hardly travel. But when I have traveled, I have also packed a laptop and checked it in... no problems. Its all in how ya pack your stuff.

[The Hardcard]

Yeah. I have long enjoyed places where you can be under jumbo jets just as they are landing. So last year, after I got my Rebel XT, I went th the median on Lincoln Bl just after it breaks off from Sepulveda here in Los Angeles, which puts you directly under the path of imminently landing jets. (They are probably less than 500 feet above you).

I was there for only 10 minutes and still hadn't perfected my technique (I now know I should have been using partial metering) when a cop let me know that, while not technically barred, the activity could put in in the hands of authorities examining my equipment and questioning me for a while in a room somewhere.

Partly, it is because those are two very busy streets and they were getting cell phones calls that a guy was "pointing something at planes."

That was with the kit lens. I don't want to even think about the commotion I would cause if I acted on my desire to take the shots with my 70-200.

[annab_99]

Any one know what Pelican case would be allower as hand-bagage (mayeb if things change in future)? I'm planing to buy Pelican 1520 but not sure if they would comply. What are the rules? I know the airlines go by dimensions, but a case may have a different policy?

[StewartR]

Any one know what Pelican case would be allower as hand-bagage (maybe if things change in future)? I'm planing to buy Pelican 1520 but not sure if they would comply. What are the rules? I know the airlines go by dimensions, but a case may have a different policy?Very little chance, I'd expect. Most airlines have a limit of 5kg or 6kg on carry-on baggage, and the Pelican 1520 (http://www.casesbypelican.com/app-1520.htm) is 4.3kg empty. So if ytou're planning to put any gear in it, it's likely to breach the limit.

As for dimensions, in the UK the Department for Transport sets recommendations of 56x45x25cm. The Pelican 1520 fits within that. So the weight is the bigger issue.

[primoz]

I actually had to unpack my camera backpack once in LA when going back to Europe. Woman on checkin counter said it's too big and too heavy. Well maybe it really was oversized and A BIT overweight with it's 24kg :D Anyway when I told her it's just camera stuff she didn't believe it... of course! Cameras weight 200g or less anyway. So when I opened it and showed to her what really is inthere, everything was fine and I could carry it with me on plane.

[Steve Parr]

GreI literally went to the store yesterday and bought miniature sized everything. Shaving lotion, toothpaste, shampoo, are all on the banned list now because they're liquid. I'll be traveling to and from the UK twice in the next 2 months both with my camera gear.

Here's a tip: Most hotels provide basic toiletries (shampoo, etc) in miniaturized containers. Also, if you've "forgotten" to bring yours, they'll provide you with some complimentary replacements...

[Jon]

Some of the TSA-approved travel locks are now also claimed to be approved in the UK by HMCE. One (surely not the only) source for these is TravelSmith (http:www.travelsmith.com). Certainly worth considering.

[Benandbobbi]

Just seen on the TV that anyone flying from the UK, can not take stuff into the cabin, everything must go in the hold. I never put my gear in the hold it stays within my site at all times. This is bad news for me as I get married in eight weeks in Canada and I will not let my laptop, camera gear and stuff go in the hold.

Do you guys put stuff in the hold or in the cabin?

What good and secure flight cases can I get, just in case?

What I may do is get some sort of hard case with locks and then just put inside my already packed Lowepro Computrekker, can anyone think of a case that will work like that?

Has anyone got stuck in the any UK aiports with this in force, what did you do with your gear?









""Alert at UK Airports Media Statement 10 August 2006

Following this mornings police action, the Department for Transport have asked all UK airports to apply additional security measures designed to ensure passenger safety. These measures will prevent passengers from carrying hand luggage into the cabin of an aircraft with the following excepts (which must be placed in a plastic bag):

*pocket size wallets and pocket size purses plus contents (for example money, credit cards, identity cards etc (not handbags))
*travel documents essential for the journey (for example passports and travel tickets)
*prescription medicines and medical items sufficient and essential for the flight (e.g. diabetic kit), except in liquid form unless verified as authentic
*spectacles and sunglasses, without cases
*contact lens holders, without bottles of solution
*for those travelling with an infant: baby food, milk (the contents of each bottle must be tasted by the accompanying passenger)*
*sanitary items sufficient and essential for the flight (nappies, wipes, creams and nappy disposal bags)
*female sanitary items sufficient and essential for the flight, if unboxed (eg tampons, pads, towels and wipes)
*tissues (unboxed) and/or handkerchiefs
*keys (but no electrical key fobs)

All passengers must be hand searched, and their footwear and all the items they are carrying must be x-ray screened.
*Pushchairs and walking aids must be x-ray screened, and only airport-provided wheelchairs may pass through the screening point.
*In addition to the above, all passengers boarding flights to the USA and all the items they are carrying, including those acquired after the central screening point, must be subjected to secondary search at the boarding gate.
* Any liquids discovered must be removed from the passenger.*

BAA wish to stress that these are precautionary measures. During the next few days airports will be extremely busy, therefore only those intending to fly should come to the airport.* Passengers are also asked to use public transport to get to and from the airport wherever possible.

Passengers are asked to be patient while these additional security measures are put in place. Delays are likely and passengers are therefore asked to allow extra time for their journey.""

Look on the bright side, maybe sometime soon we'll all fly naked!!! Hmmmm. Thinking about my past flights, maybe that's not such a bright side after all..

[primoz]

Based on my experiences, and I fly quite lot, I really don't have any wish to see 99.9% of people on those planes naked :D

[Steve Parr]

Why not just go to the source: Transportation Security Administration (http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/threat-change.shtm)

[neil_r]

Why not just go to the source: Transportation Security Administration (http://www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/threat-change.shtm)

Useful for us in the UK ;)

N

[Steve Parr]

Useful for us in the UK ;)
N

Hey, I'm flying to Montreal on Wednesday, and it does little to help me, either!

[DwightMcCann]

Hey, I'm flying to Montreal on Wednesday, and it does little to help me, either!

With you out of the country they'll probably relax the restrictions for the rest of us! :rolleyes:

[Steve Parr]

With you out of the country they'll probably relax the restrictions for the rest of us! :rolleyes:

Not an unlikely scenario, I suppose...

:lol:

[neil_r]

Stay safe

[Wilt]

I'm wondering - Is the restriction on all photographic equipment - or just the electronic parts like flash and batteries. Could you still take your lenses on board in your carry-on?

According to TSA website only moments ago, the only new restriction US flight restriction (above what we have been living with for the past year) is the 'no liquids or gels' rule.

Cameras, laptops, noise cancelling headphones and iPods all see to be OK, except for flights to/from the UK

[cspratt]

I susspect that eventually we will not be allowed any carry on baggage at all. What we do need money, passport etc. will have to be carried in a "see through" bag issued by an appropriaite authority for a substantial fee. At the other end this bag would be surrendered.

Right now too much stuff is going to landfills and there soon may be a "fee" to dump unapproved stuff in an airport bin.

What does happen to all this "inappropriate stuff" anyway?

[steved110]

In UK airports at security they have big perspex display units with a slot at the top - full of nail files, beautiful Swiss Army Knives and Leatherman tools, as well as the oddest eating implements .....I imagine when full it is binned. :(

Strange that after all this time people still forget to remove anything knife like from their persons befor going thru...

[Killie]

The list of permitted items on the BA web site includes "prescription medicines and medical items sufficient and essential for the flight". If I were you I would strongly argue that a hearing aid is a "medical item essential for the flight" - I mean, without it you won't be able to hear safety announcements etc.

Phoned Newcastle airport today, aftyer being passed from pillar to post I eventually was told they would be ok to take on board.

Cost me a packet today...long distance phone calls and extra on house insurance to cover camera gear

[rhys]

It looks to me that if this all goes through, business travellers will be hard hit. Most use the flight to catch up on work with their laptops. Many passangers read a book (books are banned) or do a crossword (pens are banned). Personally, I'm investigating alternate methods of travel.

[Wilt]

According to TSA website only moments ago, the only new restriction US flight restriction (above what we have been living with for the past year) is the 'no liquids or gels' rule.

Cameras, laptops, noise cancelling headphones and iPods all see to be OK, except for flights to/from the UK

Just got an email from United Airlines, regarding a trip I have next week. It confirmed for US flights...no liquids or gels. But no problem with electronics in carryon: laptops, cell phones, electronic car keys, noise cancelling headphones, PDA etc are all fine as carry on!

[kram]

The best experience of items not allowed for checkin was with Cathay here in HKG. My wife had packed a mini scissors into the hand baggage by mistake. They identified it at security and put it into a bag - got my details from the boarding pass and passed it to CX.

CX held it for 2 weeks and on the way back, I picked it up from their office!! This was just 2 weeks after Denver airport showed me a dustbin where I could put another item not approved for carryon (dont remember what).

[Mathiau]

glad in north ameirca you can still take carry on's - just no liquids and such, gels , deodorant et.

[anshu]

Anyone have experience of checking in their electronics, aka laptop and DSLR? Seems that i have no choice now if I intend on getting home. My plan is to put it into the case and then pack clothes around them. But Im not sure if thats enough! Im also terrified of someone opening the bag(in India) and just running off with my stuff!
Help!

[motion_projekt]

ack...good luck with that one!!!


hope nothing goes horribily wrong. best of luck to ya!

[ACDCROCKS]

in the world today, we cant even bring liquids on planes on today ( I understand the rule but) Im just saying, but if you do, make sure you check with your insurance company first

[anshu]

no tengo insurance! Never had to worry cause I was always hand carrying things before! this is my first trip with the DSLR but my 4th with a laptop, neverhad a problem. But next year I shall have it!

[neil_r]

deodorant et.

I fly far too often and I can assure you that there are many fellow passengers who do not take any of the above on board even before it was banned !

[racketman]

I hadnt thought of my camera when they announced no more hand luggage. Knowing the amount of theft that goes on at Heathrow from baggage handlers it is very worrying.

[StewartR]

Here's a tip: Most hotels provide basic toiletries (shampoo, etc) in miniaturized containers. Also, if you've "forgotten" to bring yours, they'll provide you with some complimentary replacements...Here's another tip for people flying from the UK: anything you buy 'airside' (i.e. after security control) is OK. That includes drinks, toiletries, books, magazines, electronics, cameras... All that stuff has to be checked before they even let it go into the shops so the security people are confident it's safe.

Here's another tip: BAA has an amazing retail returns policy. I'm not 100% sure of the details, so check with BAA, but I believe you can take back anything you buy in any shop in a BAA airport (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, plus some others) for a full refund, up to 3 months later, with no questions asked whatsoever. I have a friend who wasn't sure which of 2 PDAs to buy, so he bought both from the airport, tried them for a few weeks, and took back the one he liked least. In theory I imagine you could buy a camera, use it on your trip, then return it for a refund. But check the details with BAA in case I've got it a bit confused somewhere.

[anshu]

interesting information. I cant imagine that these restricitons will become permanent. But I can see that more stict rules will be here to stay. Im traveling tommorow morning with my laptop and camera in the hold. But I suppose there are some sacrifices that we have to make.

[sanil]

wish u the best Anshu. I hope no one picks up ur camera and run and u reach ur home safe with everything intact.

[chris clements]

anything you buy 'airside' (i.e. after security control) is OK.
That is emphatically NOT what the latest advice is. You can ONLY take the clear plastic bag into the cabin: no drinks, books or electronics.
There was some early confusion, but BAA (who get the shops' profits) had to back down.

Tomorow; who knows??

[Mathiau]

The airlines better be giving me a drink when ever i ask for it if they do want to stop me with athing before i hti the plane


i can see this as being a permanent implemenation, i mean, now that they know people will try it, why stop it ?

[Jon]

Just a reminder. The discussion of what to do about photo equipment if this restriction turns out to be permanent is very relevant but please lets keep politics out of it.
Let's remember to keep this strictly to handling photo gear, folks. Policy whys and wherefores are outside the scope of POTN. We will continue pruning posts that wander too far off. Tommy warned you; this is a second warning.

[rhys]

I have checked out alternatives to flying.

My parents live in the UK so I travel to see them occasionally. As I like to travel with both my laptop and my cameras, travelling via air at the moment with the ban on hand luggage seems to be an open invitation to baggage thieves.

Thus far it looks like travelling by boat between the UK and US (not sure about anywhere else) is about $100 per day to have a cabin on a cargo ship. I'm looked at cruise ships but they cost a ton more. Typically around double the price.

My dad gave me the hard sell on going by sea. I'm going to look into doing that when I go to see them some time in the next 6 months.

[Reflection]

That is emphatically NOT what the latest advice is. You can ONLY take the clear plastic bag into the cabin: no drinks, books or electronics.
There was some early confusion, but BAA (who get the shops' profits) had to back down.

Tomorow; who knows??

I'm flying Thursday and according to the airline (we had to ring regarding another matter), this is fine. My problem was that, as a sufferer of eczema, I couldn't last for 3 2-hour-approx flights (plus hour stopovers) without eczema cream. As it is a gel/cream, obviously security is tight on this at the moment. Apparently, as long as it is prescription, I am fine. If not, it is possible for me to buy a moisturiser after security, to use on the flight.

I'm certainly not happy that my 2 cameras and my father's 1 will be in the hold though. And given the several transfers, I'm even more worried!

[Mathiau]

I actually had to unpack my camera backpack once in LA when going back to Europe. Woman on checkin counter said it's too big and too heavy. Well maybe it really was oversized and A BIT overweight with it's 24kg :D Anyway when I told her it's just camera stuff she didn't believe it... of course! Cameras weight 200g or less anyway. So when I opened it and showed to her what really is inthere, everything was fine and I could carry it with me on plane.

dude you must have a pic of that ?

[Claire]

I'm far too lazy to read the whole thread, but I did think of my camera gear when hearing the news. Geesh, the way they're already throwing the luggage around I don't want my camera in there! Also, as within the US you're not to lock the suitcases, I really am not keen on possible thefts.

Oh well, I'm hoping it won't be a permanent thing.

[Wilt]

Here's another tip for people flying from the UK: anything you buy 'airside' (i.e. after security control) is OK. That includes drinks, toiletries, books, magazines, electronics, cameras... All that stuff has to be checked before they even let it go into the shops so the security people are confident it's safe.

Here's another tip: BAA has an amazing retail returns policy. I'm not 100% sure of the details, so check with BAA, but I believe you can take back anything you buy in any shop in a BAA airport (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, plus some others) for a full refund, up to 3 months later, with no questions asked whatsoever. I have a friend who wasn't sure which of 2 PDAs to buy, so he bought both from the airport, tried them for a few weeks, and took back the one he liked least. In theory I imagine you could buy a camera, use it on your trip, then return it for a refund. But check the details with BAA in case I've got it a bit confused somewhere.

And how would YOU feel, to buy a 'new' camera which has been USED by blokes with the same attitude as expressed in the above post?!?!?! Does the term 'fraud' enter the mind? It should!

[StewartR]

anything you buy 'airside' (i.e. after security control) is OK.That is emphatically NOT what the latest advice is. You can ONLY take the clear plastic bag into the cabin: no drinks, books or electronics.
There was some early confusion, but BAA (who get the shops' profits) had to back down.

Tomorow; who knows??Well, I admit it is confusing. I'm glad I don't have to fly anywhere in the next couple of weeks.

The official statement from the Department for Transport (http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/groups/dft_about/documents/page/dft_about_612280.hcsp) says:"Passengers may take through the airport security search point, in a single (ideally transparent) plastic carrier bag, only the following items..." which completely ducks the question about airside purchases.

However the security update on Heathrow Airport's web site (http://www.heathrowairport.com/portal/controller/dispatcher.jsp?CiID=875c86ceabcfc010VgnVCM10000036 821c0a____&ChID=ac4597dc2eb12010VgnVCM100000147e120a____&Ct=B2C_CT_PRESS_RELEASE&CtID=a22889d8759a0010VgnVCM200000357e120a____&Ch=All+Press+Releases&ChPath=Home%5ECorporate%5EAll+Press+Releases&ChIDPath=caf397dc2eb12010VgnVCM100000147e120a____^ 2292ea0bb0022010VgnVCM100000147e120a____^ac4597dc2 eb12010VgnVCM100000147e120a____) says: "Passengers will be able to purchase items from the departures lounge once they have passed through security and carry these onto the aircraft. However, if you are travelling to the USA, you will be able to purchase goods for consumption in the airport but no additional items, other than those on the list, can be carried onto the aircraft."

Still, as the moderators keep reminding us, this forum is for talking about cameras - and it seems they're going in the hold regardless!

[rhys]

From what I understand, the holds of planes are not pressurised nor kept warm. Thus, anything delicate can and will be damaged just by the temperatures and air pressure. Then there's the vibration - the holds vibrate far more than the passanger compartment. I know many musicians say that carrying their instruments in the hold destroys or damages their acoustic qualities. Aside from the baggage theft problem (which I'm currently researching) I have seen baggage handlers slinging luggage around very roughly. I've seen bags fall off the conveyer belts some 15 feet onto the tarmac, get kicked by the baggage handlers back to the end of the belt and then slung on so hard that it bounced. Even in a Pelican case and well padded, I don't imagine much good would result - particularly with laptops and microdrives. I can't imagine the shutter assembly would take kindly to that kind of abuse.

[Wilt]

Poorly handled baggage, I can attest to...I had a hardframe hardsided piece of luggage by Samsonite (a well regarded longtime luggage manufacturer), with a titanium metal frame that BROKE due to its abuse in baggage handling! And this occurred in transit from the UK to Ireland 2 years ago on holiday, so it does not bode well for those travellling in and out of the UK.

If encased within a foam surround and then put into the middle of clothes, I doubt vibration would cause problem but the G-shock of bad handling is another matter. And the issue of theft is another problem! I read that one can use one of the antitheft cables to lock a laptop to a part of the case so the left would have to be the entire case, not just the laptop. Looking at my camera, I don't immediately see how the same might be acomplished with it, although a couple ideas to try come to mind. Lenses are a different issue, though!

[StewartR]

And how would YOU feel, to buy a 'new' camera which has been USED by blokes with the same attitude as expressed in the above post?!?!?! Does the term 'fraud' enter the mind? It should!Congratulations on your 2,000th post, Wilt, but there's no need to get so excited.

There's no suggestion that anyone is passing off "used" cameras as new ones. BAA's policy is specifically designed to reassure people who might be worried about what happens if they have any problems with things they've bought at the airport. So they have a gold-plated returns policy, which has been shown to boost their retail sales significantly, but only a tiny percentage of people actually return the stuff they've bought. BAA can afford to write off the cost of the returns and they still come out way ahead. Note also that the airport retailers don't have any incentive to try to re-sell a "used" camera, since it's BAA who takes the returns and refunds the buyer, not the original retailer.

I've checked the BAA refund guarantee (http://www.heathrowairport.com/portal/controller/dispatcher.jsp?CiID=3278e3c450813010VgnVCM10000014 7e120a____&CtID=448c6a4c7f1b0010VgnVCM200000357e120a____&Ct=B2C_CT_GENERAL&RootCh=Shopping%20and%20Eating&Ch=Refund+Guarantee&ChID=554d1d8ee01a2010VgnVCM100000147e120a____&ChPath=LHR%5EShopping+and+Eating%5EMore+Reasons+to +Shop%5ERefund+Guarantee&ChIDPath=bde597dc2eb12010VgnVCM100000147e120a____% 5Ebf3797dc2eb12010VgnVCM100000147e120a____%5E9fcc1 d8ee01a2010VgnVCM100000147e120a____%5E554d1d8ee01a 2010VgnVCM100000147e120a____) and it does allow returns, no questions asked, within 3 months, and they do not require items to be returned "as new" or unused. I'm prepared to believe that a large and successful organisation like this knows what it is doing. So buying an item from a retailer at a BAA airport, and then returning it, is definitely not fraud.

I accept that one might question the ethics of buying something knowing that you intend to return it. If you think that by doing so, you cause someone somewhere to lose out somehow, then I respect that position. But personally I don't see it.

[Wilt]

Congratulations on your 2,000th post, Wilt, but there's no need to get so excited.So buying an item from a retailer at a BAA airport, and then returning it, is definitely not fraud.

I accept that one might question the ethics of buying something knowing that you intend to return it. If you think that by doing so, you cause someone somewhere to lose out somehow, then I respect that position. But personally I don't see it.

'Poor ethics' or 'fraud', you and I as customers of that merchant all pay the cost of lost profits (increased overhead) caused by such actions, in the higher prices we are charged that have to exist to offset the higher overhead!

Also, the store suffers the credit card surcharges associated with both the sale and the return transactions, further adding to the heightened overhead. Again, another cost that is absorbed by you and I as honest customers.

[ssim]

From what I understand, the holds of planes are not pressurised nor kept warm. Thus, anything delicate can and will be damaged just by the temperatures and air pressure. Then there's the vibration - the holds vibrate far more than the passanger compartment. I know many musicians say that carrying their instruments in the hold destroys or damages their acoustic qualities. Aside from the baggage theft problem (which I'm currently researching) I have seen baggage handlers slinging luggage around very roughly. I've seen bags fall off the conveyer belts some 15 feet onto the tarmac, get kicked by the baggage handlers back to the end of the belt and then slung on so hard that it bounced. Even in a Pelican case and well padded, I don't imagine much good would result - particularly with laptops and microdrives. I can't imagine the shutter assembly would take kindly to that kind of abuse.

I've worked the loading of aircraft and while it is true that there are going to be hoar stories about baggage handling, in general it is done with as much care as possible. The airline that I worked for kept statistics on handled baggage and it was recorded for the number of reported damages per 10,000 pieces handled. In most cases it was in the single digits with it going up into the teens or perhaps 20's in the peak season when more persons were travelling. I don't want to give the impression that the airlines are fault free but given the scope of the amount of items they move each day, I would say their success rate is pretty decent.

To run an airport like LHR it takes tens of thousands of people. So many of these people have access to the baggage makeup rooms. All persons having airside access do pass a security check but those with sticky fingers that have never been caught will get through. I think the checks that they do these days are more for association with organizations that are not approvable. This is why I always make my checked gear look as unnoticeable as possible. Every year we hear about situations at airports where theft rings are broken up. These are well organized crime units and it is a shame they exist but the airlines do spend millions trying to prevent them.

You are correct in your assessment that some aircraft holds are not pressurized or heated. However, most of the ones on the modern airliners are. We have to carry live animals, how do you think they would survive otherwise. A well packed cargo hold will leave your baggage almost immune to vibration. In most of the newer modern large airliners, the baggge is loaded into containers which offer a further level of protection. Plus your baggage is not handled as many times individually for aircraft that are container loaded.

The airlines are victims of the rules put in place by the various government agencies around the world. It is a massive undertaking and they have to enforce for the rules for the most restrictive airport in a given citypair. If you are travelling from Paris to New York and the rules at New York are more restrictive than Paris then the Paris agents have to enforce for the New York rules. That is why you find that the governing body of the airlines (IATA) will always push for uniform rules as much as possible.

This is a tough situation for everyone. We can all sit and complain and say there is no way that I am giving my gear as checked baggage. There are lots of choices and one of them is that if you choose this, you simply don't fly. So if you have to fly with your gear pack them accordingly in the event that you have to check them.

I can remember making the changes within the airline post 9/11 to adhere to new regulations. It took some time but the public got used to them quite quickly. Some of the regulations that are being brought in now will remain in effect for quite some time, if not forever.

[Reflection]

Another option for security, either instead of or as well as a padlock (the latter being advisable), is to have your luggage wrapped in cling film. In most airports there is a facility for this, costing maybe a few £/$ per case, and the entire case will be wrapped tighly in cling film. Yes perhaps it is a waste in this day and age or 'saving the world', but it will keep your case more secure, at least letting you know if somebody has been into it.
Of course if the case actually goes missing, that's another matter..

Another tip though, check your travel insurance. If excessive amount of valuables are in the hold, they may not be covered by your insurance, or only a small value covered. I'm not sure if insurance companies are changing some policies at the current time, I doubt it, but make sure you check this before you travel.

And Ssim, thanks for that information!

[rhys]

I don't know that the plastic wrap is seen as legitimate. It still has to go through security. I was at Madrid airport and they had those plastic wrap things with an x-ray scanner. They didn't look all that worthwhile to me especially since there was a sign that stated that luggage might still be opened by security after passing through that thing.

[lakiluno]

I flew from Toronto to Edinburgh on Thursday (after the whole thing came about) and I had no problems apart from no liquids on the carryon. I did get my gear tested for explosives with a special machine though :)

Leo

[rhys]

Latest news: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/4789169.stm
Mr Reid and Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander will make a joint statement at 0730 BST on Monday.
The Department for Transport said passengers would now be allowed to carry one item of hand luggage on to flights, although there would still be some restrictions in place.

[Mathiau]

i will be flying tomorrow from Toronto To Costa Rica,will let you know how it goes, this is via Continental.

i only have ym camera bag and a carry on with clothes, sucks that i need to ditch ym shampoo for my psoriasis :( which i cant get in CR, but it is not medicated just off the shelf :(

[sando]

i will be flying tomorrow from Toronto To Costa Rica,will let you know how it goes, this is via Continental.

i only have ym camera bag and a carry on with clothes, sucks that i need to ditch ym shampoo for my psoriasis :( which i cant get in CR, but it is not medicated just off the shelf :( Maybe a little less info next time!


As said before, no point in moaning, it's quite simple: No carry-on. :)

[momentz]

According to that BBC website as of 1.30am UK time - the ban has been lifted - although some restrictions still remain such as liquids I think :D YAY!!

[Man of 1000 Ages]

Yes, it seems the ban was finally lifted. It's a little late for me; I just flew from Heathrow to San Francisco to return from a conference. I had to check my camera and laptop in my bag that wasn't the most sturdy in the world. I spend two nights figuring out the best way to do it. I ended up putting some clothing in the camera bag I have, then wrapping the bag on the outside with more clothing. I also used the rolls of toilet paper in the hotel for a little more padding for the laptop.

I was also curious if the bag would be searched (and things would be potentially stolen), so I put a twisty-tie on the zipper. It was still there when the bag arrived and everything was exactly as I left it. The camera and laptop are both fully functional. I was quite nervous about the whole situation, but everything made it without problem. But if I am forced to check these items again, I imagine I will be just as paranoid as I was this time.

[rhys]

I think the hand luggage allowance is now smaller.

The airport addicted backpack is

External Dimensions:
14” W x 9” D x 22” H
35.5cm W x 23cm D x 56cm H

The Heathrow advice is now that the size allowed is

35cm (13.5 inches) wide x 45cm (17.5 inches) long x 16cm (6.5 inches) high.

I can't imagine putting much camera gear in a bag that tiny nor a laptop.

[annab_99]

I think what they don't want carried on are those huge bags that you see everyone lugging around. Backpacks and laptop bags are ok. I usually see certain people(women mostly-I don't do it :) ) with one huge purse and a carry on bag. Sometimes I wonder why they are allowed to do this. Finally the boarding process will be swifter!

[rhys]

I think what they don't want carried on are those huge bags that you see everyone lugging around. Backpacks and laptop bags are ok. I usually see certain people(women mostly-I don't do it :) ) with one huge purse and a carry on bag. Sometimes I wonder why they are allowed to do this. Finally the boarding process will be swifter!

My wife normally carries a handbag, laptop bag and medical bag. The medical bag is an essential due to her allergies.

[transcend]

I think what they don't want carried on are those huge bags that you see everyone lugging around. Backpacks and laptop bags are ok. I usually see certain people(women mostly-I don't do it :) ) with one huge purse and a carry on bag. Sometimes I wonder why they are allowed to do this. Finally the boarding process will be swifter!

You are allowed one carry-on and one personal item. I routinely carry a very large camera bag (just inside dimensions) and a laptop on board all flights with me. I fly around 2 times a month, all year long. Also, I'm a man.

[Wilt]

transcend, from your information...your hometown is located at the banks of the Crapper River but you left out its name!... Stratford-on-Avon, Rothemburg-ob-der-Tauber, Richmond-on-Thames. And where is that river located? :rolleyes:

(a suitable inquiry for my post... 2020)

[Mathiau]

Well, i made it no problems.

i checked 2 bags, icould of taken as carry on but had some medicated shampoo and such i wanted to get back.

those 2 bags came through, all items in them.

i had chapstick on me, kept it in my pocket, got through fine with it, and i got through with a small tueb of hand lotion in my camera bag, not at all hideen, they never opened it - i took it as carry on, went through allthe xrays, never stopped.

So it seems they arent being as thorough in Toronto Pearson and Houstain G.Bush airport.


How ever i did buy 2 large chocolate milks, and they poured them into cups, but i did see people with bottles walking around, but you had to finish them before getting on the plane.

[rhys]

I wonder whether a full bladder counts as a liquid container :p
I can see the security guard now...
"Sir. That full bladder is not permitted"
"Traveller. Yes Sir. OK Sir" *sounds of peeing*
"Sir. You just peed on my leg"
"Sir. Yes Sir!"

lol

Seriously, I'm casting around trying to find a camera bag that'll fit the Heathrow dimensions and which will carry my laptop, camera and lenses etc. Any ideas on something that'll carry my Compaq V2000, XT, Tamrons 17-35, 28-75 and 70-300 plus Compaq and Canon chargers plus 420EX plus hyperdrive HD80?

[Dragos Jianu]

I thinks it's just a plot to make u buy 1D tanks and super srong Ls. Just be happy they didn't think about placing the explosives in other, more obscure places....

[rhys]

I thinks it's just a plot to make u buy 1D tanks and super srong Ls. Just be happy they didn't think about placing the explosives in other, more obscure places....

I've already mentioned explosive breast implants and explosives hidden in darker places. Heck, an implant filled with liquified sodium will explode if exposed to air so all somebody has to do is to open the container!

[annab_99]

I'll be flying with RyanAir from UK to Poland and then back to UK. It seems like Poland is under no carry-ons allowed. Only wallets and medication that was certified. I wonder why this is the only country with this exception. I'm sure Poland uses the same screening tools as everyone else. Anyone one have any insight to this?

[annab_99]

And no offense was meant by my previous post. If there is a good reason to have a large carry on then great. But from my experience a lot of people abuse these rules and I've been on flights where there was no more room for the last few passanger's carry-ons.

[Croasdail]

here in the states it is business as usual. Nice thing was most people checked thier bags so there was no problem with overhead space. I really was a non-issue day - lines were short, probably better then the norm.

[annab_99]

here in the states it is business as usual. Nice thing was most people checked thier bags so there was no problem with overhead space. I really was a non-issue day - lines were short, probably better then the norm.

I'm assuming no liquids is still in effect though?

[Mathiau]

And no offense was meant by my previous post. If there is a good reason to have a large carry on then great. But from my experience a lot of people abuse these rules and I've been on flights where there was no more room for the last few passanger's carry-ons.

GOD I hate that, airport staff are SO lazy to enforce it, i have sene people with bags DOUBLE the size of the allowed carry on, theyhave that stand to test it in and no way it would fit, and yet they take it as carry on!

[stevieboy378]

British Airways have announced that during the terror alert period an estimated 10,000 items of hand baggage ( taken from boarding passengers ) have been "lost". Unofficial estimates put this figure at 20,000 + . . .
BA's excuse is that the loading/unloading carousels were not designed to handle items of luggage as small as the standard hand baggage size, and that the items had "fallen off" . . . . . .
I see BA's insurers being very, very busy over the next few months !

There is also an item on our local radio news at the moment about a 12 year old boy making it onto a plane at Gatwick yesterday, without any form of documentation. He was only discovered when another passenger found him occupying his seat . . . .

Looks like things are almost back to normal . . . .

[tlc]

a lot of people were having to check in cell phones and other small items, so each lost cell phone counts as 1 of those 10,000, ooops i mean 20,000

on a flight to edinburough they had to take off all bags from the hull and check them because a couple passengers didnt make it to the plane. when they arrived in edinburough, NONE of the bags had made it. they forgot to put them back on....:rolleyes:

[tlc]

also one observation made by a passenger -

some flghts were delayed, however, when everyone boarded (minus carry ons), the flight boarded and departed within 15 minutes instead of the usual 45-60 it usually takes!!!!!

maybe they should have flights that dont allow carry on - see how popular those become!

sometimes i get really tired of having to wait for those people who insist on bringing on board those huge wheely bags and then cannot lift them up to put them in the compartment and have to wait for someone to help them.

[SuzyView]

Husband is flying out today to CA and he went through his briefcase with a fine-toothed comb. He had "DayQuill" which you know is a liguid caplet. Took all that stuff out. But not too bad.

[Andy_T]

Interesting read ... just thought I'd let you all know that in 200+ flights I've had in the last years, I had only a single problem with checking my bags when a soft trolley ruptured at a seam and my toiletries bag obviously fell out (I don't suspect a devious scheme to rob me of my after shave and toothbrush :wink: ). Still, laptop and camera bag go inside if possible.

My colleague from the UK last Thursday (they day of the initial ban) did not have any problems of not being able to carry his bags into the cabin ... but that was mainly because he had to take the train as his flight was cancelled...

Best regards,
Andy

[AdamJL]

I'm very hesitant of the new restrictions. I'll be travelling to Morrocco next week and hope to God they will have relaxed these rules by then... or else I'll be doing the proverbials to bricks whilst onboard the plane.

[rhys]

a lot of people were having to check in cell phones and other small items, so each lost cell phone counts as 1 of those 10,000, ooops i mean 20,000

on a flight to edinburough they had to take off all bags from the hull and check them because a couple passengers didnt make it to the plane. when they arrived in edinburough, NONE of the bags had made it. they forgot to put them back on....:rolleyes:


I heard about all these latest moronic things. It's pretty typical for a secure place like British airports. Let me see - haven't most of the recent big robberies happened at Heathrow? I recall a caper where several million pounds of gold were stolen. In fact I remember several of those.

The only answer to baggage security is to have sufficient staff to hand-search all bags which passangers then lock and which are then classed as secure. I have no problem with hand-searches. At least that kind of security would mean we could carry our valuables with us.

[tlc]

I heard about all these latest moronic things. It's pretty typical for a secure place like British airports. Let me see - haven't most of the recent big robberies happened at Heathrow? I recall a caper where several million pounds of gold were stolen. In fact I remember several of those.

The only answer to baggage security is to have sufficient staff to hand-search all bags which passangers then lock and which are then classed as secure. I have no problem with hand-searches. At least that kind of security would mean we could carry our valuables with us.



i'm getting a job at heathrow.

[rhys]

i'm getting a job at heathrow.


Doing what?

[Andy_T]

British Airways have announced that during the terror alert period an estimated 10,000 items of hand baggage ( taken from boarding passengers ) have been "lost".

You might as well provide the full quote ...
About 10,000 passenger bags have gone missing since the security alert began, BA said, with half of them still piled up at airports.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2-2314992,00.html

Best regards,
Andy

[rhys]

As I've said before (possibly here - I'm too lazy to look through 16 pages), this makes me give up flying. I'm not checking my laptop nor my camera. If I travel anywhere now then it'll be by sea or by land. If the trains get too restrictive and I can imagine they will be next - followed by busses then I shall drive everywhere. I can even see an Orwellian (or rather, a KGB) world where cars are stopped on the borders of counties/states/nations and searched for things that might be terrorist-related.

[tlc]

Doing what?

guarding the gold....

[rhys]

guarding the gold....
You'll no doubt be replacing the security guard arrested for being an al-Quaida member.

[Steve Parr]

I spent an inordinate amount of time in airports yesterday, and was pleasantly suprised at the screening process.

I decided to travel with only the 20D, grip, Sigma 17-70mm, travel tripod, and a remote release. After going through many security checkpoints today, I'm comfortable in the belief that I could've brought everything I have and had no problems whatsoever. The biggest issue would've been getting the rolling backpack into the smaller overhead bins on two of the planes...

[Tareq]

when i went to Lebanon it was allowed for me to carry meduim sized bag with me to cabine, but now i got Lowepro big sized and little heavy bag, is it a problem in this case?

[rhys]

when i went to Lebanon it was allowed for me to carry meduim sized bag with me to cabine, but now i got Lowepro big sized and little heavy bag, is it a problem in this case?

Only for the UK route AFAIK. Apparently there was some discussion in the papers about enlarging the hand luggage limit but this is from 3rd hand information so I can't verify it.

You can check by following this thread: http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/437745

[blu82]

The onus is on airports to fix the problem and us to pay for it.
Until they get the solution don't use them.
I've cancelled a South African and a Swiss holiday. I will not use them until they do their jobs to my satisfaction. Come on, we are the customer. This problem will linger as long as we whine and queue. It would take them one day to fix if everyone said: stick your airlines.

[Lightstream]

I envy the folks in countries big enough to drive and lose yourself in. One of the places where I was - you could drive for 45 minutes and then you'd be in the drink. The salty stuff, not the strong stuff.

When they find a way to drive across the ocean, PM me - very interested, WTB, will offer good price ;)

[ssim]

I've canceled a South African and a Swiss holiday. I will not use them until they do their jobs to my satisfaction. Come on, we are the customer. This problem will linger as long as we whine and queue. It would take them one day to fix if everyone said: stick your airlines.

For you it was an option, it was after all just a holiday which I think most of us have had to cancel at one time or another for a variety of reasons. For millions around the globe this is not an option. Their work requires the need of fast travel. The terrorists win even when they start to disrupt your life by making you change your plans. It is indeed a sad world right now.

The problems that the airports face is a little more complex than a one day, one week or maybe even a one month fix. As fast as they plug one hole in the system the bad guys find another that is open. If one airport could do things in isolation, perhaps a quicker fix could be accomplished. However, it is the governments and not the individual airports that are making the rules. We all know what happens when a government tries to solve a problem. Add to the complexity of the situation is that you have to get all of the countries to agree. A task that is not that easy.

I belong to a few private airline employee and aviation forum boards. I have spent more time over at them the past couple of weeks due to the circumstances that we find ourselves in. While almost everyone's first reaction is to blame the airlines, cooler heads are prevailing and realizing that this is a global issue and one that the governments are going to have to deal with. Most of the frequent fliers are now taking it in stride. Just another disruption to their already hectic life.

There are many people that used to take their "tools of their trade" on the flights with them. They have been inconvenienced as much as we photographers have. We can all try to work within the rules that we are now faced with or we do as you did, and cancel our trips. This is a personal decision and for me I will be back in the air as soon as possible and be prepared to be separated from my gear if necessary. I refuse to let "them" win.

[Wilt]

There are many people that used to take their "tools of their trade" on the flights with them. They have been inconvenienced as much as we photographers have. We can all try to work within the rules that we are now faced with or we do as you did, and cancel our trips. This is a personal decision and for me I will be back in the air as soon as possible and be prepared to be separated from my gear if necessary. I refuse to let "them" win.

Not only are we having to deal with increased lines for Security, but also we now have to throw away all our liquid/gel toiletries (deodorant, toothpaste, contact lens solutions) before we go thru with carryons only...that, or we have to stand in line to check our bags (which we tried to keep small in order to carry them on for these short overnight trips) just to be able to not throw away some money each time we fly (Yes, it is only a few bucks in toiletries, but if you do that dozens of times each month, the monetary cost is substantial!) And if we do stand in line to check in baggage, we also have to stand around the baggage carousel waiting to retrieve our bag...prolonging the amount of time consumed with travel yet more! It has gotten to the point that if you can drive in 5 hours, you might as well because flying the same distance takes just as long!

[Lightstream]

There are many people that used to take their "tools of their trade" on the flights with them. They have been inconvenienced as much as we photographers have. We can all try to work within the rules that we are now faced with or we do as you did, and cancel our trips. This is a personal decision and for me I will be back in the air as soon as possible and be prepared to be separated from my gear if necessary. I refuse to let "them" win.

Well said sir...

You've given me a whole new perspective. For me cancelling my flights is not an option at all (wish I could say I was on vacation.. far from it!), and neither is letting them win!

At least we can buy a nice Pelican case and check the gear in, it doesn't weigh that much compared to tools in other professions. Well, at least not mine.. no Great Whites here ;)

[Reflection]

Well after flying to and from Finland the past week, I can safely say there were few problems. Hand luggage obviously had to be small, but luckily my camera kit fit in my bag so there was no paranoia that my suitcase would be opened. We stopped in Copenhagen and Helsinki, and froom Copenhagen you could see everybody that hadn't been through London or America - their handluggage was bigger. They're not so paranoid out there.

On the return flight, there was no problem with taking a regular backpack as your handluggage, and again I included my cameras and other valuables in it. No problems whatsoever on the return journey.

On the way to FInland, my suitcase did not have a padlock . I was very worried about it, but on arriving at our destination, it was there with all contents in tact!! On the way back, luckily I did have a padlock on it. My suitcase is currently sitting in Copenhagen while I am at home. Flights were delayed, luggage didn't make the connections. It will hopefully be delivered later on - in one piece if all goes well!!

So despite London/UK airports being very strict and having size restrictions, there were few problems with taking cameras etc. on board.

[led hed]

someone deleted my post :(

i was just enlightening folks on what's going on. which can be found anywhere.

whatever.

[tommykjensen]

someone deleted my post :(

i was just enlightening folks on what's going on. which can be found anywhere.


And then people that are interested in that can go find it there. It does not belong here on a photography forum.

[lil_miss]

The size they suggest is equivalent to small backpack.. Our camera and accessories bag is the exact dimensions they specify :

Passengers are now allowed to carry ONE item of hand baggage through the airport security search point. The cabin bag should be no bigger than 45cm wide x 35cm long x 16cm deep/high (17.7" wide נ13.7" long נ6.2" deep/high), including wheels, handles, side pockets

Taken from : http://www.heathrow-airport-guide.co.uk/security.html

[Andy_T]

Now, I may be wrong, but this looks a lot like the 'cabin size' that has been requested for the last ?dozen? of years or so (I personally started to fly more frequently in the early 90's so I can only tell that much from experience) ...

... and that has been ignored ever since :wink:

I mean, c'mon, I normally use one laptop bag that's a bit larger than that and my camera bag, but only because I find it's a pain in the ass to stuff an overnighter trolley into the small overhead bins like lots of fellow travellers do.

Best regards,
Andy

[Andy_T]

On the way to FInland, my suitcase did not have a padlock . I was very worried about it, but on arriving at our destination, it was there with all contents in tact!!

Actually, that is what I would expect :rolleyes:

In 200+ flights in Europe (mostly Germany, but also France, Spain and some destinations in Asia), I have never had any problem with a normal (locked) suitcase or an unlocked trolley (apart from my trolley breaking open once and my toiletries bag going missing)

Best regards,
Andy