How many bags can you check on the airplane?
Most airlines allow two checked bags. Others have a three bag total. Check with your individual airline for their rules and regulations. 50 lbs. is the maximum weight allowed for a checked piece of luggage, for all five of the airlines based out of the QCIA, without incurring a penalty. Most airlines charge an additional $25 for overweight bags from 51 – 75 lbs, and a higher penalty applies for higher weights. Rules and weights allowed may vary by the country of destination, if International. If you have questions about international luggage weights, contact the airline on which you are flying.

Where do I pack valuables or gifts?
It is important to note that after 12/31/2002, NO checked in bags may be locked. All locked bags will either be opened upon their screening process at the counter, or you will be called up to the counter to remove any and all locks on your luggage. You will not have the opportunity to re-lock your luggage. Any valuables must be placed in your carry on bags and gifts should always remain unwrapped. For more information about this rule, visit the TSATravelTips.US website.

What is the largest size a carry-on can be?
The most common size is 9 x 14 x 22, but airlines may vary by a few inches. All 6 airlines at the QCIA have a two carry on bag limit. Personal items, such as a purse or briefcase, are considered as one of the two items.

At what age do you have to have a picture I.D.?
Passengers eighteen years or older must have a government issued, photo I.D. Examples include a state-issued drivers license, state I.D. card, military I.D., or passport.

Should I pack my film in a carry-on or have it check through in my luggage?
The TSA has recently released new information about transporting film. In short, it says that ALL film should be placed in your carry on bag, along with a warning that states: “Equipment used for screening checked baggage will damage your undeveloped film." For more information refer to the TSA Travel Tips website at TSATravelTips.US, and read the Special Considerations topic, which includes a descriptive page regarding the inspection of film.

What if I have a pacemaker? Can I go through the metal detector?
The TSA Travel Tips Website states: “It is recommended (but not a requirement) that individuals with a pacemaker carry a Pacemaker Identification Card (ID) when going through airport security. Advise the screener that you have an implanted pacemaker. Show the screener your pacemaker ID, if you have one, and ask the screener to conduct a pat-down inspection rather than having you walk through the metal detector or be hand-wanded.”

What happens if I can’t make my flight?
You need to contact the airline or call your travel agent as soon as you know you will be missing your flight. Each airline has its own method of handling this situation. Some airlines have penalties and fees associated with missing notification deadlines (such as 24 hours prior to your flight, or midnight the night before your flight.) If you are delayed or cancelled due to weather and you have been checked in at the counter or are in the terminal, listen to appropriate airline announcements or check with the airline counter.

How soon should I be at the airport before my flight is scheduled to leave?
You should be at the airport 90 minutes to two hours before your flight is scheduled to leave. Effective 12/31/2002, ALL checked bags will go through a screening process at the airline counter and could create minor delays. After you are cleared at the airline counter, you should proceed to the screening checkpoint where further screening will be conducted of your person and your carry on items. You should be at the airline gate 20 minutes prior to departure time for boarding. All boarding announcements will be made by the airline.

Hints for Travel:
1. Verify your reservations and flight times 24 hours before you leave. Leave itineraries, including flight times and flight numbers, with any friends or relatives who may be checking on the status of your incoming or outgoing flight.

2. Put your name and address on the outside and inside of your luggage or anything else you are carrying with you (i.e. – camera bags, shopping bags, any new purchases). After 12/31/2002, NO checked in bags may be locked. All locked bags will either be opened upon their screening process at the counter, or you will be called up to the counter to remove any and all locks on your luggage. You will not have the opportunity to re-lock your luggage. Any valuables must be placed in your carry on bags.

3. Remember, unattended bags are not allowed anywhere in the terminal. Do not walk away from your bags or possessions at any time!

TSA Travel Tips
The TSA Travel Tips website is provided by the TSA, who regulates all screening procedures at airports across the country, including the Quad City International Airport.