CASA Media Release - Monday, 22 December 2002
Holiday air travel tips
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has issued top travel tips for people flying during the Christmas-New Year holidays.
Following these tips will make air travel easier, safer and secure over the busy holiday period.
- Be patient and respect extra aviation security measures. Arrive at the airport early because new security screening means it takes longer to check-in. You need to allow even more time if you are travelling with babies, young children or people with disabilities.
- Never joke about carrying a bomb or firearm. Security staff take their job very seriously, so never talk about terrorism or explosions. If you do, you may be detained for questioning.
- Do not try to carry dangerous items on your person or in your hand luggage. All knives, scissors, razors, corkscrews, metal files and other sharp or stabbing items are banned. These items will not be allowed through the security scanners.
- Check to ensure you are not carrying any dangerous goods. Flammable liquids and solids, fireworks, cleaners and solvents, wet-cell batteries, pressure containers, poisons and many other items are dangerous in an aircraft.
- Listen carefully to the safety briefing when on-board your aircraft. There's vital information on seat belts, emergency exits and life jackets that could save your life.
- Keep your seat belt fastened at all times when seated. Turbulence can hit at any point in the flight and cause severe injuries to unrestrained passengers.
- Remember children must wear a seat belt. There are special belts for children sharing a seat with an adult, although CASA recommends children travel in an approved car safety seat.
- Do not use a mobile telephone on an aircraft during flight or when directed by the crew. Mobile telephones can cause interference with critical aircraft systems.
- Behave in a civil manner and respect fellow travellers and aircraft crew. Remember there are hefty fines for unruly behaviour on-board aircraft.
CASA wishes all Australians safe and enjoyable air travel during the holiday season and throughout 2003.
Media contact
Peter Gibson
ph 02 6217 1015
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: MR0269