Powdered products are soon going to be included in the list of carry-on limits airline passengers can carry in their cabin baggage that currently includes liquids, gels, and creams.
Starting June 30, the Transportation Security Administration will require extra screening and limit the size of powders in carry-on bags of travelers entering the U.S. From June 30, the Australian Government is also enforcing the new limits on powder products.
For travelers flying to the U.S., any powdered substances — like makeup, protein shake mix, spices, baby powder — will need to be packed in containers less than 12 ounces (350 mL), or about the size of a can of soda. Larger amounts must be packed in checked bags only. Powders in carry-on bags are also subject to a secondary search by the TSA. Powdered baby formula, medicines, and cremated human remains are exempt.
The TSA is asking international airports with nonstop flights to the U.S. to implement this policy as well.
The Australian Government is distinguishing between organic powders, such as baby formula, coffee, protein powder and spices, and inorganic powders, such as talcum powders, foot powders, powdered detergent, some cosmetics and cleaning products. Organic powders are fine but restrictions apply to inorganic powders.
Flights within Australia are not subject to restrictions on how much powder, liquids, aerosols and gels you can carry onboard. However, if you are travelling domestically, but departing from an international terminal (for example, Terminal 1 in Sydney or Terminal 2 in Melbourne—your boarding ticket will confirm if you are departing from an international terminal), you are subject to powder, liquids, aerosols and gels restrictions. In particular, all aerosol containers must have a fitted cap, or locking device.
Australia restricts the quantity of liquids, aerosols, gels and certain powders you can carry onboard international flights only. These restrictions do not apply to your checked-in baggage. This applies if you are:
- leaving Australia
- transiting through Australia from another country
- travelling on the domestic leg of a flight departing from an Australian international terminal, e.g. passengers departing Sydney international airport on a flight to Melbourne.
Restrictions on liquids, aerosols and gels also apply if you are arriving on international flights.
These restrictions are strictly applied. Security screening officers have the final say if there is any doubt about what items can be carried onboard.
