30-minute rule on Reagan flights eliminated

Airline passengers yesterday got the bathroom pass they’ve long been waiting for.

The head of the Department of Homeland Security yesterday lifted a much-maligned rule preventing airline passengers from leaving their seats during the first 30 minutes after leaving and final 30 minutes approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said the rule isn’t needed because numerous security measures — including hardened cockpit doors — have been put in place to protect passengers since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Mr. Chertoff was met with applause when he made the announcement during a speech outlining his agency’s restructuring at the Ronald Reagan Building.

“I think that was probably an indication that it was a popular decision,” Transportation Security Agency spokeswoman Yolanda Clark said.

Reagan Airport is the only terminal in the nation that must abide by the rule, which is likely to disappear within days, Ms. Clark said.

“We’re delighted that the restriction is going to be removed,” said Tara Hamilton, spokeswoman for the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, which runs Reagan and Washington Dulles International airports.

Airlines also applauded the rule.

“Our customers have said that while they understand the reason for the rule, they find it to be an inconvenience. I am certain that they will welcome this move,” said David Castelveter, spokesman for US Airways, the airport’s largest tenant.

The first hint of the rule’s demise came in May when the House approved a $34 billion funding bill for the Homeland Security Department.

The bill included an amendment by Rep. Vernon J. Ehlers, Michigan Republican, to reduce the 30-minute rule to 15 minutes.

Mr. Ehlers said he has fought to remove the rule for two years.

“First, I tried to get it changed administratively. That didn’t work, so I introduced the amendment. When I did, I instantly became a hero in Congress. At least for a day,” said Mr. Ehlers, a former pilot.

Reagan Airport is the unofficial airport of lobbyists and lawmakers because of its proximity to Capitol Hill. Its utility is also the reason lawmakers have tried to repeal the ban on general aviation at the airport. Former TSA head David Stone said in June that noncommercial flights will be able to fly into Reagan Airport again, although the rules haven’t been finalized.

The 30-minute rule was a significant inconvenience on the elderly and people with bladder problems, Mr. Ehlers said.

“It was clearly overkill,” he said. “And if it’s a real risk, why is the rule just imposed on Reagan Airport?”

But the aviation security measures are intended to be flexible, Ms. Clark said.

“Now if you’ve got to get up and go to the lavatory, you’ve got a little more time,” she said.