Posted on January 04, 2010 by Fiona Hilliard

The US Transportation Security Administration has upped airport security in US airports and on all US-bound flights following attempts by a Nigerian national to detonate an explosive device on a flight from Amsterdam to Detroit.

All passengers flying to or from the United States now face a pat down as well as a bag search at departure gates.

While aboard, passengers will be told to remain in their seats for one hour before landing and some airlines are also requesting that passengers remove anything from their laps during flights including blankets or pillows.

Passengers from 14 specific countries including Iran, Pakistan, Yemen, Nigeria and Syria will also face extra checks.

In the UK, Prime Minister Gordon Brown has already promised the introduction of full-body scanners.

These new security checks mean more forward planning. If you’re travelling to the US, think about the following:

• The single piece of carry-on luggage looks set to be strictly enforced and will include all handbags, briefcases and laptop cases.  Make sure you stick to these restrictions and carry no more than one bag.
•  To save time, you should have your bag open for the final pat down and bag check at the departure gates.
• Plan your toilet breaks before cabin crew enforce the “all-passengers in seats” rule.
• When choosing your travel clothing, opt for layers that you can easily remove or put back on if the air conditioning makes you chilly and you’re asked to remove blankets.