I didn't say I wouldn't buy, but I am skeptical.



Does the TSA have the authority to shut down web sites or to order vendors to cease selling products? <img src="/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

-- Craig

Would you mind validating that? If you could point out the TSA web page where they say you may carry this particular item, this discussion would be rendered moot.

-- Craig

Hey, I'm all for using the drinks cart. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Now don't you two go starting something or next thing you know they'll be banning beverage service and pretzel sticks - you could put an eye out ya know <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

As The Three Stooges would say, The fun and games don't start until you put someone's eye out!

"I can't see, I can't see!" exclaims Curly or Larry.

"Whatsa matter?" says Moe.

"I got my eyes closed," replies Curly or Larry.

Cue sound of slap (delivered by Moe -- who else?).

That killed me as a kid. Got me every damned time.

The truth: It STILL gets me every time.

-- Craig

They could and would issue cease and desist order. If we were misrespertenting them.

Exactly what I was thinking.

Unlike many people on this list who say that they have "not flown since September 11th" I have managed to attain "Plutonium" status in my frequent flyer program since 9/11. To say I spend lots of time in the air would be an understatement. I know pilots who fly less.

The TSA publishes a really nice list of the things that are "permitted", and this list is readily available at:
http://www.tsa.gov/public/interapp/editorial/editorial_1012.xml

Also on that page is the following statement:

"Prohibited items are weapons, explosives, incendiaries, and include items that are seemingly harmless but may be used as weapons - the so-called "dual use" items. You may not bring these items to security checkpoints without authorization."

The operative words are "seemingly harmless" and the fact is that ANYTHING - a CD, a laptop, ANYTHING is a "dual use" item if the TSA decides it is.

On pages 3-4 of the official list, as updated 16 may 2005, is a section that discusses "Self Defense" items, all of which are not permitted.

Thus, while the device in question may not be RECOGNIZED as a self defense weapon by name, it is most clearly NOT on on the "Permitted" list, and, per the "dual use" option, all that is not permitted is potentially prohibited.

Thus far the only "TSA" approval that exists is for locks with an override key that the TSA has. While the company making the device in question will replace it if confiscated, I wonder if they will also accept liability for any legal costs that come from an arrest as a result of the claims made that the "TSA approved" this device. Certainly one with a good lawyer could make this case and win it.

You have brought up vaild points.

Air Travel - Prohibited Items also state's

TSA has given us confirmation that our keychain is not a prohibited item on-board US domestic flights. If someone got into trouble an they called us we would turn over all documentaion to show the above is true. This information would secure the immediate release of our customer.

Our goal in this keychain was to give good people a way to defend themselves against bad people, flying is a small part.

Devin

However, the TSA's website, last time I looked, had no listen exceptions. I rpeat the request of others: please provide proof of the TSA's approval. My query to the TSA is waiting reply.

And please done't point at the TSA logo on your website. No offense, but an image isn't evidence..