H.R. 2870 would require all airlines to accept slightly larger carry-on bags, which is great if you actually abide by the published carry-on limits. If you don’t, well, get ready to change your scofflaw ways because the TSA will enforce the new limits, and even slightly oversized bags won’t make it past security checkpoints.

How will the TSA enforce the new limits? The answer lies in subsection (e):

(e) Use of Template

(1) IN GENERAL- Not later than 6 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, TSA shall install and utilize a template with a maximum depth and width that will prevent the conveyor belt passage at each security checkpoint of carry-on baggage or a personal item that exceeds the dimensions set forth in subsection (a).

Otherwise, the bill would provide roomier new carry-on limits.

…the proposed bill would allow travelers who currently have bags at the limit to buy a new bag, or expand their current one, as the new limit would be 22 inches by 18 inches by 10 inches.

But many domestic carriers now require bags to be smaller than that. American Airlines requires bags to be a maximum of 45 inches (length plus width plus height.) Delta Airlines and United Airlines set the limit as 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches.

The bill sponsored by Rep. Dan Lipinksky (D-IL) has yet to attract any co-sponsors, but the three-term Congressman is a member of the Transportation Committee’s Aviation Subcommittee.

We’re fans of the larger carry-on limits, but we’re told the TSA is there to keep us safe. Maybe we should let them focus on going through our bags instead of worrying how large they are.

Thanks, Uncle Sam! Carry-on baggage limits may increase by a few inches [Tripso]
H. R. 2870 – Securing Cabin Baggage Act [THOMAS]
(Photo: mil8)

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