U.S. to allow pocket knives on domestic flights

WASHINGTON (AFP) ― Pocket knives and sports equipment ―banned on U.S. flights since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks ― are to be allowed back in aircraft cabins, the Transportation Security Administration said Tuesday.

Passengers will be able to carry knives with folding blades 6 centimeters or shorter, as well as sporting goods such as golf clubs, hockey clubs, and novelty-sized baseball bats, the federal agency said.

TSA chief John Pistole said the new guidelines, which come into effect on April 25, would bring U.S. security regulations into line with international standards.

Among the sporting goods to be allowed as carry-on baggage will be billiard cues, ski poles, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks and up to two golf clubs, Pistole said.

Baseball bats measuring 60 centimeters or shorter and weighing no more than 680 grams will also be permitted.

“This is part of an overall risk-based security approach, which allows Transportation Security Officers to better focus their efforts on finding higher threat items such as explosives,” Pistole said.