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TSA OKs Carrying Lulav and Etrog On Planes

By Howard M. Friedman

We are currently in the midst of the week-long Jewish festival of Sukkot.  The federal Transportation Security Administration has issued a press release assuring Jewish travelers that they will be able to bring the traditional lulav and etrog on airplanes.  TSA said:

Observant Jewish travelers may carry four plants ? a palm branch, myrtle twigs, willow twigs, and a citron ? in airports and through security checkpoints. These plants are religious articles and may be carried either separately or as a bundle. Jewish travelers may be observed in prayer, shaking the bundle of plants in six directions.

TSA?s screening procedures do not prohibit the carrying of such agricultural items through the airport or security checkpoints, or on airplanes.

[Thanks to Michael Lieberman for the lead.] 

Full post as published by Religion Clause on September 26, 2010 (boomark / email).