ALL passengers departing Jamaica via Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St James, will be checked for powdered substances in packages 12 ounces/340 grams or more at the security screening checkpoint, MBJ Airports Limited said yesterday.

This is as a result of the Transportation Security Administration limiting the size of packages containing powders in carry-on bags of travellers entering the United States, effective June 30.

MBJ Airports Limited, operator of Sangster International Airport, said in a release yesterday that powdered substances such as make-up, baby powder, ground coffee, and spices 12 ounces/340 grams or more must be packed in checked bags only.

The release said medically prescribed powder-like substances and baby formula 12 ounces/340 grams or larger are exempted and may be transported in the cabin of the aircraft, provided that any sealed containers are inspected for signs of alteration or tampering to the packaging and containers that are unsealed are inspected to ensure that the contents are consistent with the container/packaging.

“Passengers will be able to purchase packages of powdered substance such as coffee in excess of 12 ounces/340 grams post- security. Passengers with connecting flights who purchase powdered substances post security must place the item(s) in their checked bags at the point of connection prior to going through security or if the items are placed in security tamper-evident bags at the store of purchase at the airport, they may proceed with the item in their carry-on luggage. This is similar to the existing procedure treating with liquids, aerosols and gels,” MBJ Airports Limited said.