TSA Says Sukkot Items OK On Planes

The Jewish holiday of Sukkot began last Friday night. The Transportation Security Administration notified its airport screeners last week that travellers are allowed to carry onto planes the traditional lulav and etrog that are used as part of the observance of the holiday. The TSA notice read in part:

Observant Jewish travelers may carry four plants – a palm branch, myrtle twigs, willow twigs, and a citron – in airports and through security checkpoints. These plants are religious articles and may be carried either separately or as a bundle. Jewish travelers may be observed in prayer, shaking the bundle of plants in six directions. The workforce should note that TSA’s screening procedures do not prohibit the carrying of such agricultural items through the airport or security checkpoints, or on airplanes.