TSA Knife Rules: Blades Allowed On Planes; What You Need To Know

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is planning changes to the policies stating what is and is not allowed in America's skies. Unfathomable amounts of knives, blades, scissors and even shampoo and water have been confiscated by the officials in blue standing watch over the entry gates at our nation's airports.

Jerry Seinfeld famously questioned the existence of razor blade receptacles in airplane bathrooms.

" ... tiny slot-for used razor blades?" he said, completing a list referencing the abundance of miniature objects on planes, "Who is shaving on a plane?"

The answer to the funnyman's question since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks has been "no one." However, a new statement from TSA chief John Pistole may open the door for blades and knives to be allowed in the skies again.

Pistole said that Swiss army-style knives with blades no longer than 2.36 inches will be allowed past the TSA's scanners. He cites concerns of delays to the work of TSA agents and a closer adherence to European airline practices. Pistole told an audience that about 47 such knives were being confiscated daily by screeners at Los Angeles International Airport.

"Frankly, I don't want TSA agents to be delayed by these," he said.

Box cutters, like the type used by the 9/11 hijackers, are still banned. However, Wiffle bats, small souvenir bats, lacrosse sticks and golf clubs will now be allowed. Large knives as well as blades with molded handles will continue to be prohibited.

While some passengers are relieved by the more relaxed restrictions, representatives for the airline companies are not happy with the decisions. Stacy K. Martin, president of Flight Attendants Union TWU Local 556, opined her disapproval to FOX News.

"While we agree that a passenger wielding a small knife or swinging a golf club or hockey stick poses less of a threat to the pilot locked in the cockpit, these are real threats to passengers and flight attendants in the passenger cabin," she said.

The Associated Press also reports that more lax regulations regarding shoe removal for the youth and elderly will be amended. The changes take effect April 25.

Unfortunately for Seinfeld, there will continue to be no leeway for razor blades.