SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 9, 2001--Alaska Airlines is implementing a new policy that allows for only one carry-on bag plus one personal item, such as a purse, briefcase or laptop computer.

The move is in response to a new Federal Aviation Administration security directive.

The size permitted for a carry-on bag remains unchanged at nine inches by 14 inches by 22 inches.

"We really appreciate our customers' support, cooperation and patience as new rules are implemented," said Ed White, Alaska's vice president of customer service. He suggested passengers can help assure themselves of the best airport experience possible by remembering a few handy tips:

• Arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance of their departure.

• Use Alaska Airlines' self-check-in Instant Travel Machines, whenever possible. "ITMs provide passenger convenience," said White, "and alleviate congestion at ticket counters for those who require ticket-counter assistance."

• Purchase tickets at alaskaair.com and then check in and receive a boarding pass at the airline's Web site.

• Remove coins, key chains, watches or any other metal objects before stepping through the magnetometer. These types of items may be placed in carry-on baggage to be scanned.

• Remove laptop computers from cases for scanning.

• Walking canes, umbrellas and personal items such as safety razors, tweezers and eyelash curlers are all permitted in carry-on baggage. Syringes are permitted for passengers with documented medical needs.

• Pocketknives and other sharp tools cannot be carried on an aircraft and can only be transported in checked baggage.

"Working together, we can take some of the stress out of the travel experience as well as provide security," said White. "Alaska Airlines is working closely with the Federal Aviation Administration and other government agencies to assure our customers the highest level of security possible."

For more news and information, visit the Alaska Airlines Newsroom on the Internet at http://newsroom.alaskaair.com.

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