Transportation Security Administration officials in Albany are alarmed by the increasing number of cat eyes, concealed weapons that are being found in carry-on luggage. These self-defense accessories, which resemble brass knuckles in the shape of a cat face, are made of metal or hard plastic. Travelers slip their fingers through the eye holes and use the pointy ears to defend against attackers. The TSA classifies cat eyes as clubs, similar to brass knuckles, and prohibits them from being transported in luggage.
When cat eyes are discovered during security screening, travelers are given options by the TSA. They can either return the item to their vehicle, give it to a non-traveling companion, place it in checked luggage at the airline counter, or voluntarily surrender it to the TSA for disposal. However, many travelers forget they have cat eyes on them due to their whimsical appearance and the fact that they are often attached to keychains. This causes delays as TSA officers remove the items, backing up lines and inconveniencing other travelers.
Along with cat eyes, TSA agents are confiscating numerous other weapons at airport checkpoints. Last year, a record-breaking 6,737 firearms were stopped by airport security, with 93% of them being loaded. This amount of firearms seized was three times larger than the number taken by authorities a decade ago. The TSA is working to ensure the safety of passengers by preventing dangerous weapons from being brought onto airplanes, even those that may seem harmless at first glance.
Bart R. Johnson, the TSA Federal Security Director for 13 airports in Upstate New York, expressed disappointment at the increasing prevalence of cat eyes in carry-on luggage. These seemingly innocent accessories, with their cat-shaped design, are a popular choice for self-defense but are not permitted on flights. The TSA advises travelers to be mindful of what they are carrying in their luggage to avoid delays and potential confiscations of prohibited items at security checkpoints.
Cat eyes are causing concern among TSA officials due to their potential as weapons, despite their playful appearance. With the rise in confiscations of these accessories, travelers are being urged to double-check their belongings to ensure they are not accidentally carrying prohibited items. TSA agents are dedicated to maintaining the safety and security of passengers during air travel, even if it means confiscating seemingly harmless items that could be used as weapons on board an aircraft.
In conclusion, the TSA is taking action to address the issue of prohibited items such as cat eyes being found in carry-on luggage at airports. Travelers are reminded to be aware of what they are carrying in their bags to avoid delays and potential seizures of banned items. TSA officials are working diligently to ensure the safety of passengers by prohibiting dangerous weapons from being brought onto airplanes, even those that may appear innocuous. The increase in weapon confiscations at airport checkpoints underscores the importance of adhering to security regulations to maintain a safe travel environment for all passengers.
