Security Information

Safety and Security Are Top Priorities at Logan

Logan Airport is open 24 hours a day, however once the security checkpoints close, passengers are required to stay in the public, pre-security areas until the TSA opens the security checkpoints for Terminals A, B, and C by 04:00 and Terminal E by 04:30.

Security Checkpoints

All security checkpoints at Boston Logan are operated by the TSA. Massport works with the TSA to monitor security line length and tries to keep the wait time less than 15 minutes; however to avoid any problems, we recommend arriving two (2) hours prior to domestic departures and three (3) hours prior to international departures to ensure adequate time for check-in, security screening and travel to your gate. Security checkpoints normally open one hour prior to the first departure of the day. Please check with your airline or TSA directly for information regarding specific checkpoint hours of operation.

Although Massachusetts has legalized some uses of marijuana in the Commonwealth, it is prohibited under federal law to carry marijuana through the TSA checkpoints. Law enforcement will be summoned by TSA to its checkpoints for investigation when marijuana is discovered.

Body Scanners

The TSA uses Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) at Boston Logan. Currently, AIT is used in every terminal, but not at every checkpoint. For more information about AIT including privacy and opt-out information and other frequently asked questions please visit www.tsa.gov.

Carry-on Items

All items for carry-on must be screened at the security checkpoint. Liquids are allowed in carry-on luggage in accordance with the 3-1-1 format. All liquids must be contained in a bottle 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less and placed inside a one quart, clear, plastic, zip-top bag. One bag per passenger is allowed. There are exceptions for baby food/formula as well as items needed for special medical purposes.

Note: Ink and toner cartridges over 16 ounces are now banned from both carry-on and checked baggage. Firearms are also not permitted in carry-on baggage.
View full list of TSA Prohibited Items

Gate Access

A valid government issued ID and boarding pass are required for gate access through all of Logan’s security checkpoints (accommodations made for children without ID).

International Departures

Gate passes may be issued on international departures ONLY for people assisting unaccompanied minors during check in and departure. Please note airline policies for gate passes vary and issuance is not guaranteed. Contact the airline for further information about gate pass issuance.

Helpful Tips

Pack smart to get through security faster. Keep luggage organized by layering items; this will increase visibility for the security officers. When approaching the checkpoint, be prepared. Your boarding pass and ID's should be ready for inspection, outer garments and shoes must come off, any loose metal items should be placed in your carry-on, and laptop computers must be removed from bags and placed in a bin for screening.

Traveling with Children? Medications, baby formula and food, breast milk, and juice are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces (100ml) and are not required to be in the zip-top bag; however you must declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. Please view the TSA tips for traveling to allow for a more stress-free screening process.

Bringing food or gift items home for the holidays? All gifts must be unwrapped for screening (including gifts in checked baggage). View TSA's tips for traveling during the holidays.

Traveling with battery-powered hobby items, toys, or equipment? View the U.S. Department of Transportation’s rules regarding batteries.

PackSafe - Spending 5 minutes checking your luggage for hazardous materials (hazmat) gets us all there safer. Learn more about hazardous material, the hazmat rules, and how to pack safe from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

TSA Pre-Check

TSA Pre✓® is an expedited security screening program connecting travelers departing from airports within the United States with smarter security and a better air travel experience.
More Information

Boston Logan has an enrollment center located in Terminal A on the Arrivals Level.

Pre-Check Enrollment Center Hours of Operation

M-F 8:30AM-5PM *Closed 11:30AM-12:00PM

Phone: 615-651-4803

Visa/Passport Requirements

To find out about U.S. government passport and visa requirements, please visit the following U.S. Department of State and Department of Homeland Security sites:

Passport Services
US-VISIT Program
Visa Waiver Program
Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative

ATTENTION: Massachusetts Travel Order (expand)

More in this Section