Save a Minute or Two at Airport Security

Frequent fliers may be able to save a few minutes passing through security come monday August 16, 2008. 

If you happen to have your laptop in the right computer bag, that is.

Here’s how the computer screening process works now:

Currently, TSA requires that all passengers traveling with a laptop computer must remove their laptop from their bag and place it in a bin for screening.

Starting monday, the use of 3 special designs will allow you to leave your laptop inside your bag.

In theory, that is – the announcement contains plenty of disclaimer so don’t count your blessings just yet.

I guess I’ll believe it when I see it.

While Butterfly Style, Trifold Style and Sleeve Style have been approved, backpacks and Accordion Style bags have not. Major bag manufacturers have been working with TSA to develop and test new models in order to benefit from this changed policy.

Here’s a link to the announcement on the TSA website. It also provides more detailed requirements for laptop bags. Let’s hope that this indeed makes traveling a bit easier.