Small Knives To Be Allowed On Planes

Leah Zanolla | Posted: Mar 6, 2013 | Updated: Oct 19, 2014 - 9:25:27 AM

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has backed off on the rules regarding what can be carried on an airplane. Beginning April 25, passengers will now be allowed to carry on small knives with 2.4-inch blades and no locking mechanism, baseball bats less than two feet in length, golf clubs, ski poles, hockey sticks and pool cues. When questioned about the change, the TSA stated that these changes will better align the U.S.'s list of prohibited items with the items allowed on international carriers. It will also decrease the amount of time spent in the security screening area. Flight attendants and passenger right groups have criticized the change, saying it brings about an unnecessary risk, as well as taking up valuable overhead bin space. The last significant change to this policy was in 2005, when small scissors, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers and lighters were once again allowed on flights.