Security Report from CDG
 

Just returned home from Paris last night and wanted to give you a quick update on what is happening with airport security for those flying to the US from CDG.

They are suggesting that you arrive at the airport 4 hours prior to your flight, although that didn't really seem necessary to me. Upon check-in at American Airlines, we were handed a piece of paper explaining that you would only be allowed one carry on. Not one carry on and a personal item i.e. not a carry on bag and a purse. However, they didn't seem to be enforcing this at check in. American did not charge us for the additional piece of checked luggage beyond the two we were allowed. We were also asked what seemed to be some enhanced security questions.

Then there was the "regular" airport security (shoes & coats off etc.). That line seemed to be rather short and moved quickly.

Prior to boarding American Airlines also "wanded" every single passenger, and at this time enforced the carry on rule by making everybody who didn't listen the first time check their additional items and hand searched each carry on.

Now you can imagine how the enforcement of the second carry on item was going with those who like to travel with the laptop bag, a carry on bag and the mega purse...but overall people were patient with the lines. I would say it took about an hour and a half to board the plane with the second round of screening. My advice -- if you don't want to sit on the plane an extra hour wait for the end of the line. There will be plenty of overhead space.

So pack lightly and remember to bring your patience with you!

Thanks so much for this information, since I always seem to end up flying through CDG. People are just going to have to realize that one carry on means exactly that, and it slows the process down for everyone. Did AA require you to remain seated for the last hour, with nothing on your lap?

imperialtopaz - no, they did not make us remain seated in the last hour or put things away. Thankfully, someone must have realized that was just plain silly.

Thanks for this info. My husband never checks his luggage - alwyas has his laptop in addition to the rollerboard. I guess he will have to change his habit.

My daughter and I are going to France in March - I guess the takeaway is pack LIGHT. That will be hard for me!?! :)

Thanks for the update. If the purse fits inside the carryon, does that count as one piece?

yes, thanks for the info.

Eeesh, what a pain. Just hope they catch one of the jaspers responsible for all this travel annoyance.

Some airlines and airports have been operating the one carry on policy for quite a while, but yes you can put your handbag into your carry on bag.

<<Thanks for the update. If the purse fits inside the carryon, does that count as one piece?>.

I've been doing that for quite a while with no problem.

I was surprised at the <<"regular" airport security (shoes & coats off etc.). That line seemed to be rather short and moved quickly.>>

It didn't move quickly when I was there in October. I was pulled out, wanded, patted down, as were others and they went through a lot of carryons.

It's going to be interesting.