It appeared to be business as usual at the airport Friday, day two of the increased security measures.
“The process today has moved very efficiently,” said Jonathan Dean, spokesman for the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, noting that the moderate midday traffic was typical.
Federal officials tightened airport security Thursday after British authorities thwarted alleged terror attacks planned for U.S.-bound planes.
Most Baltimore passengers were taking the tighter security in stride, leaving most banned items at home.
“Passengers have really gotten the word,” Dean said. “The customers have adapted.”
Vendors beyond the security checkpoint continued to sell products, including drinks, lotions and creams, and travelers can buy them at their own risk.
Transportation Security Administration officials were conducting secondary searches before passengers boarded, Dean said, and vendors posted signs indicating the new security measures.
Many travelers are opting to check more baggage, and Dean said airlines have been accommodating the load.
“The best thing to come out of this is all these people who brought bags on the plane will have to check them,” said Rosita Matthews, of Laurel, who was visiting the airport.
“This means we?ll get on and off 20 minutes faster.”
Despite the restrictions, Brenda Tipsword, of Chillicothe, Ill., said she planned to try bringing her daughters? apple juice in sippie cups through security. However, she did leave her purse, lip balm and bottled water at home.
“My lips are so dry, I?m about to die,” she joked.
Jacqueline Robertson, a Columbia resident who had packed many of her carry-on items in a clear plastic bag, was similarly annoyed that she had to leave her lotions and lip balm at home. Her husband, James, shared her frustration.
“This is fake security,” he said. “This isn?t going to stop [a terrorist attack].”
More information
» The Transportation Security Administration has banned all liquids and gels from carry-on baggage.
» This includes beverages, suntan lotion, creams, toothpaste and hair gel. Beverages bought beyond the checkpoint must be consumed before boarding. Exceptions are baby formula and medications.
» Laptops, cell phones and other electronics are still allowed.
