Does anyone know whether it's allowed to bring knitting needles on airplanes? My understanding is yes - I sat next to a traveler on a recent flight and she said it was allowed because it helps to relax nervous travelers? But it seems to me they'd be considered a weapon?

If it's allowed, do they have to be wood or plastic, or can they be metal? Thanks!

I would call your airlines and ask them. Just be aware that sometimes airlines will say something is OK but the security at the airport will still take it away from you. There does not seem to be any standard procedures.

Maybe e-mail the airline, and if you get an e-mail back saying that you can print the e-mail out and take it with you. Don't know if that will help or not, just a thought.

The TSA allows knitting needles - or at least they are not considered weapons. I have brought my knitting with me and have not encountered any problems other than not really having enough elbow room to work. Having said that, I have also arrived early just in case I get a grumpy agent who decides to veto the allowance (thankfully that has never happened) so that I can run back to my car that I usually park in the long-term lot. I have taken bamboo, plastic, metal, of all sizes.

I would really only recommend working on a small project with small needles because there is so little elbow room. Maybe you could work on a knit hat or a project with small circular needles.

Have fun and good luck!

I carry knitting with me all the time. I also keep a copy of the TSS approved list in my carry on, just in case..... I find if I work with short needles I usually have enough space. I carry wooden needles.

I've taken them on a NW flight to London via Detroit with no trouble. However, on the return flight they were not allowed. They are listed on the security posters hanging in the check-in area, and I asked a security agent. They told me that they knew the US would let you take them, but they do not. Luckily I had not checked my luggage yet so I was able to put them in my checked baggage.

Yes, they are permitted.
Go to tsa.gov for a list of items that are premitted.
I had to go to tsa.gov/public/ this morning to get into the site.

I think some of you just aren't listening. It really makes no difference if they officially are or are NOT pemitted. The bottom line is that some security guard may NOT let you take them. Despite opinions to the contrary, there are NO hard and fast rules that are equally enforced.

If some security guard says no, then you could consider asking to see a supervisor and show him/her the copy of the TSA rules which show that they are allowed.

I have flown back and forth to Paris and many places in the US and have never had trouble with any of my knitting supplies--circular needles, regular needles, etc. The only thing I have ever had taken away from me is a very sharp crochet hook for finishing work. It got through the TSA on the way to Paris but they took it away from me in paris on the way back--not such a bad deal as it only cost $3.