DHS to Drop 30-minute Rule on Flights In and Out of Reagan

July 15, 2005

DHS to Drop 30-minute Rule on Flights In and Out of Reagan
July 15, 2005 – As part of a major overhaul of the Department of Homeland Security, Secretary Michael Chertoff announced that airline passengers will no longer be asked to remain in their seats 30 minutes before landing or after taking off at Reagan National Airport.

Chertoff said the 30-minute rule was a "sensible measure" when first applied but no longer is needed because of "significantly enhanced layers of security," including hardened cockpit doors and the use of air marshals.

The elimination of the rule is part of a decision-making approach focused on "strengthening security where needed and eliminating unnecessary burden when possible," he said.