Yes, you may be able to bring live coral on a plane under specific conditions.
Bringing items through airport security checkpoints is managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). According to TSA guidelines, certain types of coral may be allowed in carry-on or checked baggage, provided specific criteria are met and the item is cleared by a TSA officer.
Bringing Live Coral Through Security
The reference states that Live corals in water and a clear transparent container are allowed after inspection by the TSA officer. This indicates that if you are transporting live coral, it must be contained properly for inspection.
Requirements for Live Coral
Based on the provided information, here are the key requirements if you plan to travel with live coral:
- Type: Must be live coral.
- Container: Must be in a clear transparent container.
- Condition: Must be transported in water.
- Process: Subject to inspection by the TSA officer.
- Final Decision: The ultimate authority on whether the item is allowed through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer.
This means that even if all conditions are met, the TSA officer has the final say on whether the live coral can pass through security.
For information on other items not covered here, the reference directs travelers to the 'What Can I Bring?' page on the TSA website.
It's important to note that these guidelines specifically address live coral in water within a clear container. Rules for other types of coral (like dead coral, coral skeletons, or fragments not in water) may differ or fall under different regulations, which are not detailed in the provided reference.
Travelers should always check the latest TSA guidelines and potentially contact their airline before attempting to travel with items like live coral.
