Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport at Threat Level Orange
(August 10, 2006) - In response to the terrorist threat to international aviation security, the Secretary of Homeland Security has elevated the Homeland Security Advisory System Threat Condition to High, or Orange, for all domestic commercial aviation, which includes flights arriving and departing from the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport.
Passengers should check with their airline (either by phone or through the airline website) before departing for the airport to confirm what items will be allowed in carry-on bags. All passengers should allow additional time for screening. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and airlines are advising passengers to travel light in order to expedite the screening process. On instruction of the TSA, liquids or gels of any kind will be prohibited at the screening checkpoint, including:
- Beverages
- Shampoo
- Suntan Lotion
- Creams
- Toothpaste
- Hair gel
- Other items of similar consistency
Passengers may have baby formula, breast milk, or juice if a baby or small child is traveling. Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket, insulin and essential non-prescription medicines will also be allowed through the checkpoint.
Beverages can be purchased and consumed in the pre-screening area and they may be purchased and consumed past the checkpoint, but they can not be carried through the checkpoint or onto a flight. In addition, all passengers will be asked to remove their shoes when passing through the TSA security checkpoint.
In accordance with standard operating procedures at threat level Orange, the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport Authority will increase police presence in and around the airport terminal. In addition, we will coordinate with local airlines, vendors and the TSA to provide customer assistance during the heightened threat level.
For complete updates, passengers are encouraged to contact the following resources:
- Your airline's 1-800 number
- Your airline's website
- The Transportation Security Administration at www.tsa.gov
We will update you as additional information is available.