THE FOLLOWING QUOTED FROM SOUTHWEST AIRLINES:

TSA Adds all Lighters to Prohibited Items List
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin enforcing ban on April 14, 2005.

Effective March 1, 2005, Customers will no longer be permitted to carry lighters onboard commercial aircraft or in the sterile areas of the airport. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) implemented the ban and will begin enforcing it on Thursday, April 14. Customers will need to either surrender their lighters to the TSA, leave them in their vehicle, or leave them with someone who is not traveling. Congress passed this provision in a continued effort to enhance air travel security. Prohibiting lighters will reduce current security vulnerabilities and add another layer of defense. By packing smart and leaving your lighter at home, Customers can accelerate the screening process and get to their flights faster. The TSA prohibits lighters in both carry-on and checked luggage. TSA will be monitoring how the ban affects Customer wait times.

TSA separately is considering whether other ignition sources should be added to the Prohibited Items List. If the carriage of matches is added to the list, the TSA will publish an updated notice that modifies its current rule. Currently, Customers are permitted to carry up to four books of safety matches with them onboard.

END OF QUOTE

OK...I don't see what the big deal is. Yeah it seems insignificant but they are trying to make flying as safe as possible.

I wouldn't recommend trying to sneak anything on board. If you get caught enough times even for minor stuff you will find yourself on the no-fly list and it's a major pain to get off of it.

There was a news article a few months ago about a person who was placed on the no-fly list because of trying to take aboard metal nail files. They were placed on the list without being told only to find out on the next time they were flying.

I fly at least once a month. I don't care if they want to ban matches. Come on guys....it's a friggin' butane lighter for cryin' out loud. Buy one when you land and leave it behind.



I still love all of you

MMAB