In response to the tragic events of 9/11, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was established to develop and enforce airport security. They are also responsible for the development and delivery of training to federalized security screeners that include information about the physical appearance, function, and importance of immediate passenger accessibility to diabetes equipment, medication and supplies. The following are the most current guidelines for persons with diabetes traveling within the 50 states that need to board with their equipment, medication and supplies. TSA makes the following recommendations to airline passengers with diabetes and additional "Tips for Travelers" may be accessed from TSA's Web site.

Persons with Diabetes

• Notify the screener that you have diabetes and are carrying your supplies with you. The following diabetes-related supplies and equipment are allowed through the checkpoint once they have been screened:
• insulin and insulin loaded dispensing products (vials or box of individual vials, jet injectors, pens, infusers, and preloaded syringes);
• unlimited number of unused syringes when accompanied by insulin or other injectable medication;
• lancets, blood glucose meters, blood glucose meter test strips, alcohol swabs, meter-testing solutions;
• insulin pump and insulin pump supplies (cleaning agents, batteries, plastic tubing, infusion kit, catheter, and needle);
• Glucagon emergency kit;
• Urine ketone test strips;
• Unlimited number of used syringes when transported in Sharps disposal container or other similar hard-surface container.
• Insulin in any form or dispenser must be clearly identified.
• Notify screeners if you are wearing an insulin pump and explain that you cannot go through the METAL DETECTOR or be handwanded.  
• Insulin pumps and supplies must be accompanied by insulin with professionally printed labels identifying the medication or manufacturer's name or pharmacy label.
• Advise screeners if you are experiencing low blood sugar and are in need of medical assistance.