Interntl passengers urged: "think before you pack"

30 March 2007

International passengers urged to “think before they pack”

Auckland Airport is urging travellers to “think before they pack” with one day to go before new security regulations come into force on departing international flights.

The new rules limit the quantity of liquids, aerosols and gels which can be taken through departure security screening and onto aircraft as hand luggage.

Auckland International Airport Limited chief executive officer, Don Huse, said: “Duty free can still be purchased as usual if you are travelling direct, but there may be implications if you are stopping over or will be in transit before reaching your final destination. Airport retailers will be able to provide the information that applies to your flight.”

Travellers can still buy or collect duty free on arrival coming back to New Zealand.

Liquids, aerosol and gel items to be taken through departure security screening in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100ml and placed in a single transparent plastic bag no larger than 20cm x 20cm or 15cm x 25cm. The bag will need to be presented for inspection when passengers pass through the airport’s security screening point.

“We are asking all international passengers to think before they pack and to consider what liquids, aerosols and gels are absolutely essential to take through departure security screening and carry on a flight, and what can be packed away into their checked-in baggage.”

Mr Huse urged all international travellers to visit flysmart.govt.nz prior to travel for further information. The website provides advice for passengers with essential medication and items such as baby products.

“Airport organisations will have extra staff on duty, but thinking ahead will help all of us to help international travellers,” he said.

“If you’re planning a trip overseas over the school holiday Easter break, these new measures will affect how you pack at home.”

The new rules are effective from Saturday 31 March.

ENDS

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