(JTA) — Jews will be able to carry their lulavs and etrogs through U.S. airports without fear of being stopped by security.
The national Transportation Security Administration issued a special alert this week noting that Jewish travelers may be carrying the four species — a palm branch, myrtle branches, willow branches and a citron — through the airport and security checkpoints during the Sukkot travel period, identified as Sept. 19 through Oct. 4. The eight-day observance of Sukkot in the Diaspora begins at sundown Sept. 22.
"TSA’s screening procedures do not prohibit the carrying of such agricultural items through the airport or security checkpoints, or on airplanes," according to the statement.
The plants are not on TSA’s Prohibited Items list.
"TSA is committed to treating all passengers, including passengers who may be observing Succot, with respect and dignity during the screening process," said the statement.
JTA has documented Jewish history in real-time for over a century. Keep our journalism strong by joining us in supporting independent, award-winning reporting.
