AAA Travel Offers Tips for Americans Flying During Current Terrorism Emergency.

ORLANDO, Fla. -- AAA Travel, North America's leading full service leisure travel agency network, provides the following tips for Americans and Canadians flying domestically and overseas. The tips are in response to a heightened security alert issued Thursday by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Travelers in the U.S., Canada and overseas have to abide by new travel restrictions at airports and need to take additional precautions to have a safe and stress free travel experience.

"The primary rule of thumb for the foreseeable future is to take precautions before you arrive at the airport - including staying in contact with your travel agent," said AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet. "Travel counselors have access to the most up to date information about this emergency situation and can give you advice that will help save you time and frustration."

AAA offers the following tips to North American travelers planning to take a trip domestically or internationally in the next few days:

1. Pack as lightly as possible, especially when it comes to your carry on luggage. Passengers are restricted from taking liquids, creams and gels on board with them. The only exceptions are medicine and, if you are traveling with a child, baby formula, breast milk and juice.

2. If you have doubts about any carry on items, leave them behind or pack them in your checked luggage.

3. Be prepared to cooperate with airport screeners and don't argue or try to convince them to bend the rules. They are not making exceptions and arguing with them will likely make the wait longer for you and other travelers.

4. Arrive two to three hours early, but don't be surprised if your wait is shorter than expected. Five years have passed since 9/11 and the Transportation Security Administration is more efficient and better prepared to handle crowds and long lines during heightened security alerts.

5. If you used a travel agent, contact him or her regarding airline ticket cancellation and change policies as well as travel insurance coverage. They generally have this information at their fingertips.

As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 49 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at http://www.aaa.com.

AAA news releases can be downloaded from http://www.aaa.com/news.