US approves tamper-evident bags for duty-free

Nicole Mezzasalma

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The TSA has approved the use of tamper-evident bags for post-security duty-free purchases

The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced it has approved the use of sealed tamper-evident bags (STEBs) for the transportation of duty-free liquids purchased post-security by international passengers at US airports. The bags must follow International Civil Aviation Organization guidelines and will not be accepted at security checkpoints within the country. The TSA added that international travellers arriving in the US should store their duty-free purchases in their checked luggage before boarding their next flight.

TSA administrator Kip Hawley said: “The use of tamper-evident bags is another step in harmonising security measures with our international partners.” The authority’s statement noted that the decision is “an additional security measure that will align with European Union security protocols and will reduce the number of passengers who surrender duty-free liquids when transferring to European or other international airports”, adding that retailers will voluntarily begin using STEBs in the near future.