TSA May Let PreCheck Passengers Keep Their Water Bottles at Security, Reversing a Post-9/11 Rule

According to a new report, the TSA is considering reversing its 20-year-old policy by allowing PreCheck travelers to bring water bottles through security checkpoints without needing to empty them first.

It may just be a matter of time before the TSA lifts the ban on water bottles at security, according to recent reports, which means there will be no need to throw out or consume your water before going through airport security.

Former TSA head John Pistole told The New York Times the agency is considering reversing the rule that was set in place roughly 20 years ago, though the change isn't expected to take effect until after the holiday season, and it is still unclear which airports will be affected.

Water bottles | Source: Getty Images

In a statement to People, TSA said it will "continue to explore opportunities to enhance security and improve the traveling experience for the public," adding that security protocols will keep evolving alongside new technology, including potential benefits for its "most trusted travelers."

The ban on liquids was established after British authorities discovered a plot using explosive liquids on airline flights back in August 2006. Initially, the rule prohibited bringing liquids at all, until it was later amended to allow liquids, gels, and similar items in containers under 3.4 ounces inside a single quart-sized bag.

An airport security officer holds up a sign as she speaks on a bullhorn warning passengers about the rule on liquids and gels | Source: Getty Images

This new development concerning liquids and travel comes as TSA marks 25 years since the September 11 attacks, the event that led to the creation of the agency.

In a statement released coinciding with the anniversary, TSA Administrator David P. Cummins said the agency is aware of the more sophisticated and evolving threats the U.S. faces and the need to modernize security in defense of these threats.

A TSA agent working at the Ronald Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Virginia | Source: Getty Images

As such, he announced, "We've launched the Horizon 25 Strategy to advance our capabilities across all modes of transportation to ensure 9/11 never happens again. Not on our watch."

Apart from the liquid rule change, TSA has also launched Gateside by TSA PreCheck at 13 U.S. airports, and since last summer, it no longer requires travelers to remove their shoes during security checks.