As summer travel ramps up, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued an urgent advisory for airline passengers in Wisconsin, urging them to follow updated safety guidelines or risk delays and even denied boarding.
Among the top concerns flagged by TSA agents at airports like Milwaukee Mitchell International and Dane County Regional Airport are violations involving lithium batteries, public USB charging stations, and REAL ID compliance.
Lithium Batteries and Power Banks: Checked Bags Ban Still in Force
One of the key reminders from the TSA involves the strict rules around lithium-ion batteries and power banks. These items are not allowed in checked luggage due to the high risk of fire. Instead, they must be carried in hand luggage.
This includes:
- Phone power banks
- Spare lithium-ion batteries
- Portable charging devices and battery cases
The TSA has reiterated that failure to follow this rule may not only lead to removal of items but also trigger boarding delays. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has warned about the risk of battery fires mid-flight, citing real incidents like a power bank catching fire on an international flight, which forced emergency landings in recent years.
For more safety guidelines, travelers are encouraged to review FAA regulations here: www.faa.gov
Southwest Airlines and other carriers have also started requiring passengers to keep power banks visible and out of bags during use on flights, making it easier for cabin crew to detect overheating issues.
Avoid Public USB Charging Stations, TSA Warns
Another growing concern is the use of public USB charging stations, especially those found in airport terminals. The TSA is now warning that these can be exploited by hackers to install malware or steal data from phones and laptops a scam known as “juice jacking.”
Passengers are advised to:
- Carry personal USB power banks or AC chargers
- Avoid plugging into free USB ports unless absolutely necessary
- Consider using a USB data blocker device if using public ports
This warning follows advisories issued by the FBI in 2023 that explained how such public ports have been linked to data theft incidents across multiple U.S. airports.
To stay cyber-safe, travelers can refer to official TSA cybersecurity alerts here: www.tsa.gov
Reminder: Follow the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule
While many travelers are familiar with the liquids rule, the TSA has noticed an uptick in violations during recent airport checks. As a reminder, travelers are allowed to carry:
- Liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less
- All containers must fit inside a single, clear quart-size zip-top bag
- One bag per passenger
Violating this rule can slow down security lines and may lead to items being discarded at the checkpoint.
TSA officials at General Mitchell International have reported confiscating thousands of full-sized shampoo bottles, beverage containers, and spray cans from passengers just in the past two months.
REAL ID Deadline Is Here: Don’t Get Left Behind
Another major warning comes ahead of the fast-approaching May 7, 2025 deadline, when REAL ID requirements will officially go into effect across the United States. For travelers flying domestically, this means that state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs must be REAL ID-compliant — indicated by a star at the top.
Without a REAL ID or alternative TSA-accepted ID (like a passport), you may not be allowed to board domestic flights after the enforcement date.
TSA officers have reminded passengers that the deadline is non-negotiable, and travelers should not wait until the last minute to upgrade their ID.
TSA’s Behavior Red Flags: Know What to Avoid at Checkpoints
The TSA is also reminding passengers to be aware of behaviors that may draw extra scrutiny at security checkpoints. These include:
- Wearing heavy layers inappropriate for the weather
- Excessive yawning or avoiding eye contact
- Strong fragrances that could mask other smells
- Nervous or overly chatty demeanor
Such behaviors may trigger additional screenings, and agents are trained to observe for subtle cues of potential threats. While this doesn’t mean passengers will face penalties, it can cause delays — especially during high-traffic travel periods.
Final Checklist for Wisconsin Travelers
With summer travel season in full swing, here’s a quick checklist to avoid delays:
- Keep lithium batteries in carry-on, not checked bags
- Avoid public USB ports — use your own charger
- Follow the 3-1-1 liquid rule strictly
- Double-check your ID for REAL ID compliance
- Stay calm and follow checkpoint procedures
