Air-travel rules eased

Water bottles and some small toiletries will be allowed on airplanes again, beginning today.

Monday, the Department of Homeland Security announced it is partially easing restrictions on liquids and gels being brought onto airplanes.

Any liquids, gels or aerosols in a container no larger than three ounces and placed in a one-quart plastic bag that is transparent will be allowed on the plane with a passenger's carry-on luggage, said Ron Malin, security director for the Transportation Security Administration in Utah.

"That bag has to be able to seal," he said.

Additionally, any beverage purchased in the airport after a passenger has been screened into the secured area will be allowed on the plane, no matter what the size.

A total ban on all liquid and gel items went into effect Aug. 10 after British officials uncovered an apparent terrorist plot to combine liquids with other elements to make bombs on planes.

"Our intel now knows enough that we can say the small travel-size liquids are safe to bring through the security checkpoint," Malin said. "Passengers have accommodated to the (total ban) very, very well. This change will allow them to bring some of the personal items through. It will probably be a welcome relief."

Many passengers traveling out of the Salt Lake City International Airport Monday said they were indeed pleased with the change and looked forward to being able to take water or another beverage on the plane with them.

"Anything to make it more comfortable," said Vernal resident Bill Kremin, who was traveling Monday to Las Vegas. "We're grateful for the security. Hopefully this will make us a little more comfortable while still being secure."

Missy and Jason Crow of Mesquite, Nev., have traveled several times with their 8-month-old daughter since the restrictions went into effect.

"We haven't had too many problems. But it is a little inconvenient," Jason Crow said of the old rules.

For the most part, Crow said the airlines have been good about allowing them to carry on their daughter's baby formula. But he said it would be nice for the parents to now be able to bring their own drinks.

Kenneth Cochran flew to Utah from Glasgow, Scotland. His trip took him through London and Vancouver before reaching the United States. "I think it's a good idea," he said of the partial lift on the liquid ban. "I think the whole thing seems a bit extreme."