Apparently, John S. Pistole, the Transportation Security Administration administrator, has never been to a hockey game.
How else to explain the move, beginning April 25, to allow U.S. airline passengers to carry on hockey sticks in their bags? Or maybe it's just that terrorists don't play hockey?
The TSA said the changeover is a result of "an enhanced understanding of current intelligence."
The announced easing of carry-on restrictions will also allow ski poles, lacrosse sticks, billiard cues and up to two golf clubs to be carried on commercial flights. Small pocket knives less than 2.36 inches and under a half-inch wide also will be permissible as long as the blade doesn't lock, a move met with strong opposition by flight attendants. Box cutters are still a no-no.
Baseball bats are excluded, however, because apparently a hijacker could do more damage with that than a hockey stick, pool cue or golf club. "TSA continues to evolve and strengthen its multi-layered approach to aviation security – through better technology, expanded data analysis capabilities and an enhanced understanding of current intelligence," the TSA said.
Bottled water and gel deodorant with more than 3.4 ounces are still barred.
The transportation agency said the forthcoming rule change "is part of an overall risk-based security approach, which allows Transportation Security Officers to better focus their efforts on finding higher threat items such as explosives."The TSA is also throwing frequent travelers a bone, and has recently launched a program known as TSA Pre check in at least 32 airports. Pre-approved travelers undergo expedited screening and my leave on their shoes, belt and jacket. Laptops can remain in their carrying case.
