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Continental Airlines steps up security measures

Palikir, POHNPEI (Department of TC&I): August 15, 2006 - The Department of Transportation, Communications and Infrastructure has received a notice from Continental Airlines that security measures will be heightened for all its flights in the Federated States of Micronesia.

The notice followed the foiled terrorist airline plot in London last week. Continental announces that due to heightened security measures, effective August 11 2006, the airline has banned all forms of "LIQUID, GELS or AEROSOLS of any size" from entering the screening checkpoint, whether it be in "carry-on (hand carry) baggage or on one's person."

Among the examples of prohibited items are "beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, toothpaste, hair gel, hair spray, liquid cosmetics, or any items of similar consistency. All such items must be checked-in."

Exception is, however, given to the following items:

• Baby formula/milk and baby food in small containers, if a baby or small child is traveling;

• Prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket;

• Essential other non-prescription medicines not to exceed 4oz.(120ml) per container ;

• Solid cosmetics and personal hygiene items such as lipstick in a tube, solid deodorant, lip balm, and similar solids."

The Continental Notice advises the traveler to be "prepared to remove footwear for x-ray or physical inspection at the screening checkpoint."

Additional information on the new security measures can be obtained from the Continental offices in each State.