PORTLAND (NEWS CENTER Maine) -- The Portland Jetport is anticipating a record number of travelers for summer 2018. Transportation Security Administration officials say they share the same hope as many travelers; that the lines move fast.
The airport’s TSA supervisor says it starts with travelers following the rules, of what’s accepted in carry-on bags and what is not. And when it comes to hacks that claim to get travelers past the security checkpoint quickly, Rick Caldwell is also helping to separate myth from fact.
HACK 1: Are the lines to the left faster? Because more people are right handed, they choose the line to the right?
“It’s kind of like being at the bank. Whatever teller you pick, that’s the slow line, right?” says Caldwell. “One thing I always tell passengers is it’s not how many people are in front of you but who is in front of you.”
Caldwell says this one is a myth. If everyone is prepared and goes by the TSA rules and regulations, the wait shouldn't be long.
HACK 2: Lines that have less agents move faster. More agents mean someone’s training and the line could move slower.
“Not necessarily," says Caldwell. "Sometimes that’s a good thing because we can process more people, more people are available for that.”
Caldwell says the Portland Jetport is staffed to keep up with the busy summer. He says the lines slow down when agents find prohibited items in carry-ons. Knives, guns, large containers of gels, or full water bottles, are some examples.
“So think about what you’re bringing in,” he adds.
Speaking of water bottles, one way to stay hydrated without paying for expensive water bottles near the gate once you’re through TSA, is to bring an empty reusable bottle. However, what if you want to take along your favorite local iced coffee?
That brings us to HACK number 3: If it’s frozen it's OK to go through TSA.
“It does," says Caldwell. "So if it’s frozen it can go through. Any items that are frozen we consider that safe to travel through the checkpoint.”