Air Travel and Insulin
On Thursday, August 10th, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security raised the national security level to High (Orange) for all U.S. commercial flights. In addition, new travel restrictions have been put in place – including a ban of all liquids, gels, lotions, and creams of any kind in carry-on luggage. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), all necessary medications, including insulin, are exempt from this ban. Prescription medications should be labeled as such, and the name on the label must match the name on the passenger ticket.
To ensure a smooth passage through airport security, keep insulin vials and pens in their original packaging and let security personnel know you have diabetes and are carrying insulin and testing supplies. Give yourself adequate time to get through security (as of this evening the TSA is suggesting three hours in advance of your flight) and call your airline before traveling to check on any additional restrictions that may be imposed at the carrier level.
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