This information is adapted from the U.S. Department of State's travel website.

Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, the proposed implementation timeline has two phases:

Beginning January 23, 2007, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air between the

United States and Canada,
Mexico,
Central and South America,
the Caribbean, and Bermuda

will be required to present a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration Card, Form I-551, if applicable.

As early as January 1, 2008, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security.

While recent legislative changes permit a later deadline, the Departments of State and Homeland Security are working to meet all requirements as soon as possible. Ample advance notice will be provided to enable the public to obtain passports or passport cards for land/sea entries.

The passport requirement does NOT apply to U.S. citizens traveling to or returning directly from a U.S. territory. U.S. citizens returning directly from a U.S. territory are not considered to have left the United States and do not need to present a passport. U.S. territories include the following: Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Swains Island, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

The information has been adapted from the Transportation Security Administration's website.

On September 26, 2006 the TSA changed the ban on liquids, aerosols and gels for flights.

Travelers may carry travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit comfortably in ONE, QUART-SIZE, clear plastic, zip-top bag through security checkpoints

After clearing security, travelers can bring beverages and other items bought in the secure boarding area on the aircraft.

At the checkpoint, travelers will be asked to remove the zip-top bag of liquids and place it in a bin or on the conveyor belt. X-raying separately will allow TSA security officers to more easily examine the declared items.

In addition, larger amounts of prescription liquid medications, baby formula and diabetic glucose treatments must be presented at the checkpoint for additional screening.

This security applies to all domestic and international flights departing U.S. airports.

Tips for a Hassle-free Screening Experience

De-clutter your carry-on bag. Transportation Security Officers can get a clear, uncomplicated X-ray image of your carry-on.

When possible, keep packing liquids in checked baggage. You will get through security faster.

Limit quantities to what is needed for the duration of the flight.

Items purchased in the secure boarding area are for use on the immediate flight.

Ban Implemented to Protect Passengers

The ban on liquids, aerosols and gels was implemented on August 10 after a terrorist plot was foiled. Since then, experts from around the government, have analyzed the information and have conducted extensive explosives testing to get a better understanding of this specific threat. These changes are intended to enhance security and balance human needs because of a better understanding of the threat and security risks associated with liquids, aerosols and gels.

In addition, TSA will be enhancing security measures throughout the airport environment with more random screening of employees, additional canine patrols, stronger air cargo security measures, more rigorous identity verification, deploying more trained security officers in bomb appraisal, and screening by observation techniques.

As always, the American public should remain aware and vigilant, and report any activity they deem suspicious to local authorities or other appropriate law enforcement agencies.

The U.S. Department of
Homeland Security's threat level
is orange or high on
flights in the U.S. and on international flights.