• FAA regulations help passengers travel safely.airplane image by Grigoriev Vitalii from Fotolia.com
  
  The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has numerous, detailed regulations in place for passengers on aircraft. The regulations are designed with the passengers' safety in mind, as well as national and international security. The FAA has a website that outlines all regulations in detail, along with frequently asked questions. There are some basic regulations that are helpful to know.
  
  

Baggage Restrictions

• Although each airline has its own size restriction, generally the maximum size is 45 linear inches. Anything exceeding the maximum size must be checked (put in the plane's cargo hold). Each passenger is allowed one carry-on item (such as a small piece of luggage or a backpack) and one personal item (such as a purse or laptop bag). Diaper bags do not count toward your limit if you are traveling with a baby.
  
  Certain items cannot be carried on board, but they can be checked as luggage. For example, golf clubs cannot be carry-ons, but they can be checked. Visit the FAA's website for the most current list of prohibited or restricted items.
  
  

Identification

• When clearing security, adults (18 years or older) must show proper identification. In the United States, acceptable identification must be issued by the U.S. federal or state government and, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states, should contain your name, date of birth, gender, expiration date of the form of identification and a tamper-resistant feature. Examples are a government-issued passport, a driver's license or a permanent resident card, among others.
  
  

Flying with Children

• Many airlines will allow children under the age of two to fly within the United States for free if sitting on the lap of an adult. If the flight is international, most airlines require you to purchase a seat for the child, regardless of age. Although the FAA does not insist on an infant traveling in a child safety device (such as a car seat), it is recommended.
  
  

Liquids

• Adults must follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: "3.4 ounce (100ml) bottle or less (by volume); 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin." Juice, formula, snacks, baby food and milk for children do not fall under the same restrictions for liquid as those intended for adult use.