Foiled terrorist plot in London leads to heightened security and longer lines at Southern California Airports.

UK police have arrested 21 suspects in a foiled terrorist plot to blow up several commercial planes over the Atlantic. Since they are not sure they have all the terrorists in custody, the threat advisory has been raised to Critical (Red) in the UK and Orange (High) in the US.

If you are planning to fly in or out of Los Angeles area airports the next few days, you will be subject to the new carry-on restrictions by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) now affecting all domestic and international flights. Passengers may not carry on any liquids, gels, creams, lotions or pastes. So pack the toothpaste and hair gel in your checked luggage and leave beverages at home. Beverages purchased at the airport must be consumed before boarding.

Exceptions to the liquid limitation are baby formula, breast milk or juice for a baby or small child, prescription medications in the passenger’s name and non-prescription medical essentials like insulin.

It is also advised that you pack all personal electronics in your checked bags and carry as little as possible onto the plane. At a press conference at LAX this morning, authorities also announced that removing shoes is no longer optional. All shoes have to go through the x-ray machines.

If you are traveling to Los Angeles from the UK, you will face much stricter security. All carry-on luggage has been banned, with the exception of wallets, keys and documents that can be carried on in a zip-lock bag.

If you are picking someone up at any airport, be sure to check for delays before you head out.

Photo courtesy of LAWA