What Are the New Rules for Flying in 2024?

If you flew in 2023 and are planning a trip in 2024, you might be surprised by what’s changed at the airport. The rules aren’t just tweaked-they’ve been rewritten in places. And no, it’s not just about bigger bags or longer lines. Real changes are happening in how you prove your identity, what you can carry, and even how you move through security. If you’re flying domestically in the U.S., or internationally from Europe or Australia, these updates affect you directly.

Your ID isn’t just a driver’s license anymore

In the U.S., the biggest shift came in May 2023, when the REAL ID enforcement deadline finally kicked in. If your driver’s license doesn’t have a star in the corner, it’s no longer enough to get through TSA checkpoints. You need a REAL ID-compliant license, a U.S. passport, a military ID, or another federally approved document. This rule applies to all domestic flights. No exceptions. No last-minute trips to the DMV on the day you fly.

States like New York, California, and Washington had extra time to comply, but by January 2024, every state was enforcing it. If you’re unsure whether your license qualifies, check the top edge. A star means it’s compliant. If you see the words “Federal Limits Apply,” you’re not good to go. You’ll need to visit your motor vehicle office and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your current address. It takes about two weeks to get the new card.

Liquids still follow the 3-1-1 rule-mostly

You’ve heard the 3-1-1 rule forever: 3.4 ounces (100ml) per container, all in one clear quart-sized bag. That hasn’t changed. But in 2024, TSA started testing new scanners at 12 major U.S. airports that can see through liquids without you taking them out. If you’re flying out of Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, or Los Angeles, you might notice you’re not being asked to pull out your shampoo. That’s not a mistake-it’s the new standard.

These scanners use advanced X-ray and AI to detect explosive materials in liquids. So far, they’re only in select checkpoints. But by late 2024, the plan is to roll them out nationwide. When you see the signs saying “No Need to Remove Liquids,” you can leave your toiletries bag in your carry-on. But don’t get lazy. If the scanner flags something, you’ll still be asked to remove it. And if you’re flying internationally, most countries still require you to take liquids out. Don’t assume the U.S. rules apply everywhere.

Electronics have new limits

Large electronics are still allowed in carry-ons, but the rules around spare batteries changed. In 2024, the FAA tightened restrictions on loose lithium-ion batteries. You can still bring them, but only in your carry-on, and only if they’re under 100 watt-hours. That covers most phone, camera, and laptop batteries. But if you’re carrying a power bank over 27,000mAh, you need airline approval-and even then, you can’t have more than two. No exceptions. And no putting them in checked luggage. Ever.

Also, if you’re flying from or through the EU, you can’t bring power banks over 160Wh on any flight, even if you’re just transiting. Some airlines, like Emirates and Qatar Airways, started checking power bank capacity at check-in. If yours is too big, they’ll confiscate it. Save the giant camping power banks for road trips.

Children under 18 don’t need ID-unless they’re flying alone

If you’re traveling with kids, good news: you don’t need to bring their birth certificate or school ID for domestic flights. TSA doesn’t require minors under 18 to show ID when flying with an adult. But if your child is flying alone-on an unaccompanied minor service-things change. Airlines now require a government-issued ID for the child, like a passport or state-issued ID card. Some airlines, like Delta and United, started requiring a photo ID for unaccompanied minors as young as 12. Check your airline’s policy before booking.

Also, if you’re flying internationally with a child, even if they’re not flying alone, you need their passport. No exceptions. And if you’re traveling with a child who isn’t yours, you may need a notarized letter from the parents. Some countries, like the UK and Canada, started enforcing this rule more strictly in 2024.

Mask rules are gone-but health screenings aren’t

The mask mandate ended in 2022, and it’s not coming back. But airlines and airports added new health screening steps. In 2024, several international airports, including Heathrow, Sydney, and Toronto, started using thermal cameras at entry points. They’re not diagnosing illness-they’re just flagging people with elevated body temperature. If your temperature is high, you’ll be asked to step aside for a manual check. It’s not common, but it happens.

Some airlines, especially those flying to Asia, still ask passengers to fill out digital health forms before boarding. For example, if you’re flying to Japan or South Korea, you’ll need to complete an online declaration within 72 hours of departure. Failure to do so can mean being denied boarding. Don’t skip it just because you think it’s outdated.

What you can’t bring has expanded

Fireworks, flares, and sparklers have always been banned. But in 2024, TSA added new items to the no-fly list. Self-balancing scooters (hoverboards) with lithium batteries are now banned in checked luggage and carry-ons. Same with e-cigarettes that use refillable tanks-those are only allowed in carry-ons, and only if the battery is under 100Wh. You can’t bring them in checked bags at all.

Also, aerosol cans like hairspray or deodorant over 18 oz (500ml) are now prohibited in carry-ons, even if they’re under the 3-1-1 limit. They’re fine in checked bags, but you can’t carry them on. And if you’re flying to Australia or New Zealand, you can’t bring any food-fresh fruit, cheese, even packaged cookies-without declaring it. Customs officers are using trained dogs and new scanners to catch undeclared items. Fines start at $1,000.

What to do before your next flight

• Check your ID. Does it have a star? If not, get a REAL ID or passport.
• Review your power bank. Is it under 100Wh? If not, leave it home or ship it.
• Know your airline’s policy on unaccompanied minors.
• Fill out any digital health forms before you leave.
• Don’t pack hoverboards, fireworks, or large aerosols in carry-ons.
• If flying to Australia, New Zealand, or parts of Asia, check what food is allowed.

These rules aren’t arbitrary. They’re based on real threats, new tech, and international agreements. Ignoring them won’t make them disappear-it’ll just make your trip longer and more stressful.

Still unsure? Here’s what to do

If you’re flying internationally, always check the airline’s website and the destination country’s immigration site. Don’t rely on old advice from friends or blogs. The rules change fast.

For U.S. flights, visit tsa.gov. They have a searchable list of what’s allowed and what’s not. You can even upload a photo of your item and get a yes/no answer. It’s free, accurate, and updated daily.

Bottom line: The new rules aren’t about making flying harder. They’re about making it safer and faster. Follow them, and your next flight will go smoothly.