Travelers Beware: Airports May Scan For Edibles

While the legalization of cannabis for medical and recreational purposes has been gaining momentum across the United States, the federal government still classifies it as a controlled substance. This discrepancy between state and federal laws creates confusion about whether individuals can legally carry edibles, a cannabis-infused product, through airport security. Although TSA agents are primarily concerned with safety and searching for weapons and explosives, they may detain individuals found with edibles and hand them over to local law enforcement, depending on the amount and the jurisdiction of the airport. Some airports provide amnesty boxes for travellers to discard their weed before security, while others may confiscate edibles or require individuals to throw them away. Overall, the likelihood of arrest for carrying edibles is low, but it is still a federal offence to bring them on a plane.

TSA agents are not looking for edibles, but for weapons and bombs

While the legalization of cannabis has been gaining momentum across the United States, with more states legalizing its use for recreational and medical purposes, the federal government still classifies it as a controlled substance. This discrepancy between state and federal laws creates confusion about whether individuals can legally carry edibles, a cannabis-derived product, through airport security.

Transport Security Administration (TSA) agents are primarily concerned with ensuring flight safety and protecting passengers. Their screening procedures are designed to detect potential threats, such as weapons and explosives, rather than specifically targeting edibles or other cannabis products. TSA agents do not actively search for cannabis products, but if they discover them during security screening, they may refer the matter to law enforcement.

The consequences of being caught with edibles at an airport vary depending on the state and airport policies. Some airports, like Los Angeles International Airport, follow the state's marijuana laws, while others, like Boston Logan International Airport, may notify state police if edibles are found. Most airports, however, are federal jurisdiction, and technically, possessing edibles in these airports is illegal. In practice, TSA agents may simply ask individuals to discard the edibles or, in rare cases, detain them until they can be handed over to local law enforcement.

It is important to note that while domestic flight drug arrests at airports are uncommon, the risk of legal consequences remains. Additionally, the TSA has guidelines regarding cannabis products, allowing only those with no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis and those approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Passengers should also be aware that individual airlines may have policies prohibiting the transportation of marijuana on their flights, regardless of state or federal laws.

In conclusion, while TSA agents are not actively searching for edibles, individuals choosing to carry them through airport security risk potential legal consequences, especially if they are travelling through airports or to states with stricter policies. It is essential to stay informed about the specific laws and regulations of the departure and arrival states, as well as the policies of the particular airport and airline.

If found with edibles, TSA will hand you over to local law enforcement

Although the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not search specifically for marijuana or other illegal drugs, if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer. The TSA does not have the authority to make arrests, but they can detain you until they can hand you over to the local police. The final call on how to proceed then rests with the local law enforcement, which can vary depending on the state and local laws.

For example, if you are caught trying to get away with flying with edibles at Logan Airport, you will most likely see your items discarded. The Airport Police Division won't arrest an individual in the airport if he or she does not exceed the legal amount in their possession, which is up to 28.5 grams. On the other hand, TSA agents at Boston Logan International Airport have the option to call the Massachusetts State Police if they discover your edibles during a security check.

TSA agents are primarily concerned with flight safety and are on the lookout for weapons and explosives. They may not be actively searching for edibles, but if they are found, they will be treated as any other illegal substance. The risk of detection also increases if you are transporting high quantities of marijuana, as you could be charged with drug trafficking.

To avoid detection, some travellers recommend removing edibles from their original packaging and placing them in a ziplock bag, as well as only transporting small amounts that are allowed for personal use in some states. However, it is important to note that even if you are flying between two places where cannabis is legal, it is still illegal to bring edibles through airport security, on a plane, or through customs and immigration. The risk of detection is also higher with full-body scanners, which can detect even the smallest items, and experienced TSA agents can easily identify obvious cannabis items.

Some airports are more lax than others

While cannabis is now legal in many states, it remains illegal under federal law. Airports and airplanes are under federal jurisdiction, so carrying edibles on a plane is illegal. However, some airports are more lax than others when it comes to enforcing these laws. For example, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has a policy that allows individuals to possess up to 28.5 grams of cannabis without facing arrest. Similarly, the Airport Police Division at LAX will not detain individuals who do not exceed the authorized amount of possession, which is also 28.5 grams.

On the other hand, Boston Logan International Airport is known for disposing of edibles found on plane travelers, but they also have the option to notify the police. The same goes for Los Angeles; while the TSA will likely confiscate the weed, they may still contact local authorities if the amount is too high or if the individual is not of legal age.

The TSA's primary focus is on public safety and identifying potential threats to airport security, rather than drug enforcement. Their mission is to detect threats to passengers and aircraft, so their security officers are not actively searching for edibles or other cannabis products. However, if they discover any during screening, they may either throw them away or alert the authorities.

It is important to note that the consequences of carrying edibles at airports can vary depending on the state and local laws. While some states may be more lenient, it is still illegal to possess marijuana on an airplane due to federal regulations. As such, it is generally recommended to avoid carrying any form of marijuana, including edibles, when traveling to avoid potential legal complications.

Take edibles out of the packaging and put them in a ziplock bag

While the laws and enforcement around flying with edibles vary across different states and airports, it is illegal to fly with edibles containing cannabis or CBD under federal law. However, hemp-derived edibles with less than 0.3% THC are allowed under federal law.

If you are considering flying with edibles, it is important to be aware of the relevant laws and regulations at your departure and arrival airports. It is also worth noting that some airports are more lenient than others when it comes to enforcing cannabis-related restrictions.

When it comes to taking edibles out of their original packaging and placing them in a ziplock bag, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is generally recommended to keep edibles in their original packaging when flying. This helps to clear up any confusion about the contents of the package and prevents potential issues with airport security. However, some sources suggest that taking edibles out of their original packaging and placing them in a ziplock bag can make them easier to transport and less noticeable.

If you choose to take edibles out of their original packaging, it is important to do so discreetly and ensure that they are securely sealed in the ziplock bag. This can help prevent any smells from escaping and drawing unwanted attention. Additionally, make sure to keep the ziplock bag in a secure location within your carry-on luggage or personal item, as edibles can be easily mistaken for regular food items.

It is worth noting that while some people have successfully flown with edibles by taking them out of their original packaging and placing them in a ziplock bag, this does not guarantee that you will not encounter issues with airport security. The level of scrutiny and enforcement can vary depending on the airport, the availability of drug-sniffing dogs, and other factors. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the risks and make an informed decision based on your specific circumstances.

Flying with edibles is still federally illegal

Flying with Edibles: What You Need to Know

While cannabis is now legal in many states for recreational or medical use, federal restrictions still make flying with edibles illegal. This applies even when travelling from one legal state to another. However, some airports are more lenient than others, and the likelihood of facing consequences depends on various factors.

Airport Policies

Some airports, like Logan Airport, are known for disposing of edibles if found on travellers, but they can also choose to involve the police. A few airports, like Las Vegas' McCarran International Airport, have installed "amnesty boxes" where travellers can dispose of cannabis products without penalty. Denver International Airport, on the other hand, prohibits cannabis anywhere on airport property. Los Angeles International Airport will not arrest individuals if they do not exceed the legal amount in their possession, which is up to 28.5 grams.

TSA Policies

TSA agents follow different policies depending on the state laws where they are located. While TSA officers are required to report any suspected violations to local, state, or federal authorities, they are primarily focused on security and detecting potential threats to aviation and passengers. They are not actively searching for drugs and are more concerned about weapons and explosives. If they discover edibles during screening, they may confiscate them, ask travellers to dispose of them, or refer the matter to law enforcement, especially if large amounts are involved or if discovered in a state where cannabis is illegal.

Medical Marijuana

Flying with medical marijuana is also a violation of federal regulations. However, some states allow medical cannabis reciprocity, which means patients with medical marijuana cards can enjoy similar privileges when travelling to another state, although they may need to apply for a new card valid in the visiting state.

In summary, while flying with edibles is federally illegal, the likelihood of facing consequences varies depending on the airport, the amount possessed, and the state laws. Most travellers who choose to take the risk do so by removing edibles from their original packaging and placing them in ziplock bags to avoid detection. However, it is important to remember that the legal landscape surrounding cannabis is constantly evolving, and the advice provided here may not be exhaustive or up-to-date.

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