TSA makes a ruling on the iPad

Image by Getty Images North America via Daylife

Although not everyone is having an easy time with their new iPads, there is one shining perk with the tablet computer versus a laptop. TSA has announced that travelers going through security checkpoints at airports will not have to remove their sleek Apple slates from their carry-on bags – unless told to do so.

What makes the iPad so special – at least to airport security? To start with, it’s a much thinner device without “bulky accessories like plugs and external drives that clutter the image” when going through the x-ray machine. Normally, all laptops and netbooks have to be removed from baggage, unless already packed in a “TSA-approved” messenger bag, which doesn’t always fly with them 100% of the time.

That isn’t to say you’ll never be asked. In which case, that might end up being more annoying if you are asked to unload your stuff and go through the metal detector twice, meanwhile everyone is staring and wondering what is wrong with you. And who knows if this has been broadcast to all TSA agents at airports nationwide yet. If you’re flying with an iPad in the next few days, expect them to still ask you to remove the tablet computer from your knapsack.

Hopefully, all will go well with you and your iPad, so long as it doesn’t overheat in your bag or while on vacation.