Susan

Seems like an odd, petty question, but I was wondering if anyone has had experience since the new restrictions,with doing needlework during the flight,etc. I can do it without scissors, but not without needles, and was not sure how particular they are. Has anyone been able to carry their needlework on? This will be an international flight from Pittsburgh to Toronto to lOndon. Thanks for any responses.

Marc David Miller

Last year I bought some plastic matador sticks (about five inches long) at the airport in Sevilla, Spain, and the ramp security required me to check these. <BR> <BR>Why waste the time of the security staff (and everyone else on the security line) at this time? Check them.

Jody

I can't believe they would restrict your needlework needles. Like you I can do without scissors, I just cut my yarn into lengths before I start. I too find doing handwork a good way to pass the time on those endless flights. They probaby won't even show up on the x-ray machines they use in US airports.

fran

Susan, anything----I repeat, anything----that could be used as a potential weapon is now allowed on the aircraft. That would obviously include needles. Read a book. And to those who intimate that Susan can "sneak" them on and they probably won't be noticed, we shouldn't be encouraging anyone to sneak anything questionable past security.

Jody

Fran , have you ever seen a needlepoint needle . they are not even sharp. Hope you don't have any safety pins in your luggage or you might get busted. Let's not get hysterical , just use good sense!

jack

I have to agree with Jody. I am diabetic and need to use insulin while inflight. Do you think they will take away my syringes? Hysteria is not at all helpful in this situation. I someone thinks they can take over an airplane with a needle , well then more fool them.

Lauren

Obviously, if you need syringes for diabetes, no one will take them away. <BR> <BR>My elderly great aunt set off the security alarm once when she was boarding El Al. They strip searched her. The source of the trouble was ostomy hardware. <BR> <BR>After that miserable experience, she carried a doctor's note. <BR> <BR>Anyone who absolutely needs to have items that could be regarded as weapons on airplanes, should get a doctor's note. <BR> <BR>There is no reason to get hysterical about this. <BR> <BR>Needlepoint needles--which are not sharp--are an interesting question. In the current climate, I would bring a book instead.

jean-marie

Sorry, knitting needles are being confiscated unless you put them into checked baggage.

Lipstique

A needlepoint/tapestry needle may not be sharp, however, it can still do damage. For example, in the wrong hands, it can poke a person's eye out. For that matter, a sash, a belt and/or a belt buckle can be used as a weapon. I suppose one could even find a way to use shoelaces to harm someone. <BR> <BR>Use good judgment; call your airline before you depart and inquire whether the items you wish to carry on are acceptable if you are in doubt. You'll never get your "prohibited carry-on items" back if you've already checked your luggage. <BR> <BR>Although you may view some of the restrictions as silly, these precautions are being taken for your well-being and the well-being of your fellow passengers. Let's all go with the flow and have safe and pleasant journeys.

xxx

LOOK AT SUSANS EMAIL ADDRESS!!!!!!

Susan

Thank you all for your replies. My email address is such because it is part of my last name, not because I was mocking anyone or trying to be ignorant. I hesitated to ask the question because in the light of all that has happened, it seemed very petty. However, I have not traveled much, and I thought I would (could) count on the experience of those who had. Thanks to all who posted an intelligent response. I appreciate your input

Felicia

I would not suggest taking the needles. That is, if you mean the long pointy ones that one uses while knitting. (knitting needles). The ones that are for cross stitch, regular sewing needles that are about 2 inches long, I would think would be ok, as they could not do any damage. I just got back from an intl flight and they were a little concerned about a picture frame holder I had, about 4 inches tall, and I was checking it in my suitcase. They made sure that suitcase did get checked. I hope this helps. <BR>

Dallas, Texas

I don't think they will allow the needlepoint needles even though they are not sharp. They aren't allowing nail clippers, and these are so dull I can hardly cut my nails with them. However, it will probably depend on the person doing the checking (shouldn't, but it probably will). Let us know. . . I'd like to take some needlepoint with me if it's OK.

kate

Flew out from London Heathrow on Friday and no needlework or knitting needles were allowed. You will have to check them in.

Susan

Many thanks! that's what I needed! Susan