US airlines to accept powdered substances purchased post-security
Published:Wednesday | June 27, 2018 | 12:00 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
United States (US) carriers operating from the Sangster International Airport will accept powdered packages in excess of 12 ounces/340 grams in their cabins once the products are purchased post-security checkpoints.
The news comes as the US Government tightens its security, limiting the size of packages containing powders in carry-on bags of travellers entering its country. The powder ban, announced by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), becomes effective this Saturday, June 30.
However, fears that this directive would affect the country's coffee and spice sales in the airport have been dispelled following a decision by MBJ Airports Limited and airlines operating at their Montego Bay facility. MBJ Airports, in a media release on Wednesday, advised that powdered substances such as makeup, baby powder, ground coffee, and spices 12 ounces/340grams or more must be packed in checked bags only.
As a result, all passengers departing via MBJ will be checked for powdered substances in their bags at the security screening checkpoint.
MBJ said that any package in excess would not be allowed beyond the checkpoint. Medically prescribed powder-like substances and baby formula 12 ounces/340grams or larger are exempted and may be transported in the cabin of the aircraft. This is provided that any sealed containers are inspected for signs of alteration or tampering to the packaging and containers that are unsealed are inspected to ensure that the contents are consistent with the container or the packaging.
The company further noted that passengers would be able to purchase packages of powdered substances such as coffee in excess of 12 ounces/340grams post-security.
MBJ stated: "Passengers with connecting flights who purchase powdered substances post-security must place the item(s) in their checked bags at the point of connection prior to going through security, or if the items are placed in security tamper-evident bags at the store of purchase at the airport, they may proceed with the item in their carry-on luggage. This is similar to the existing procedure treating with liquids, aerosols, and gels."