Albany, NY (December 23, 2002) - - - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun the inspection of checked passenger luggage at the Albany International Airport. Full implementation of the Airport's new Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) system will be completed by the TSA before the December 31st deadline as ordered by Congress. The airlines serving Albany International Airport check approximately 2,550,000 bags each year.

"We have worked in concert with the Transportation Security Administration and our airlines to design an effective system that provides a maximum level of safety to passengers, crew and aircraft traveling through Albany International Airport," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority.

The Transportation Security Administration began the installation and testing of new Explosive Trace Detection equipment and conducting employee training in mid December. The system includes several ETD machines located in the ticketing area of the terminal. Some of the airlines have elected to position the ETD's within the ticket lines. Other airlines have installed the machines in space behind their ticketing areas.

"Each airline was provided the opportunity to integrate the new ETD system into its own operation to ensure optimum effectiveness and passenger services," said Paul Varville, Federal Security Director at Albany International Airport.

Holiday passenger traffic at Albany International Airport is anticipated to show a modest increase over last year. The Airport's major airlines expect to be operating at or near capacity during the traditional holiday travel days.

Passengers are being advised to arrive at the Airport at least one hour and thirty minutes prior to their flights. Some airlines will not accept checked luggage less than 30 minutes before flight time. Passengers can help ensure a timely check-in by practicing the following:

• Have driver's license or photo ID, tickets or boarding passes out and available
• Pack sharp objects, scissors, pocket knives in checked luggage
• Place personal items such as toothbrushes in plastic bags
• Keep medicine, valuables and film in carry-on luggage
• Do not wrap holiday packages
• Do not lock checked luggage
• Do not leave luggage unattended
• Only one carry-on item and one personal item through checkpoint
• Remove laptop computers from case
• Allow time between flights to make connections

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