Air travel is moving from one place to another through the use of a device that can carry a passenger or passengers through the air. Mass passenger air travel has only been possible since early in the 1900s, although people have been traveling by air in one form or another dating back to 1783.http://www.centennialofflight.gov/essay/Lighter_than_air/Early_Balloon_Flight_in_Europe/LTA1.htm Modern air travel has changed the way we work, play and get to where we want to go. It could be said to have increased productivity and made the world seem a smaller place.

Using the air travel system in the United States requires either booking a flight ahead of time through an authorized agency, or purchasing a ticket at the departure airport. Airports are located across the United States, and the destination can determine which airport must be used. Some airports, such as Dallas Love Field, only have domestic flights, and other airports are designated as "International", which is what is needed if the destination is another country.

Each airline has specific airports they operate from, and specific destinations they fly to. Travelers can contact an airline directly through their website, or by calling either the corporate office or an airport terminal. Flight schedule information is typically available on the airline website as well.

Many travelers opt to use a travel agent or agency for information and to obtain deals on flights. The local yellow pages can net a number of local agents, and the Internet has not only brick and mortar agencies listed, but also online only travel websites, such as Expedia, Orbitz, and Priceline, among others. Utilizing these websites can give the traveler more options, and can allow comparison shopping to get the best deals on air travel.

The TSA, or Traffic Safety Administration has been tasked with keeping travelers safe. They have established a number of rules and regulations in order to do this. Many items that were previously allowed in carry-ons or even in checked luggage are now prohibited. There is a list of prohibited items on this page, but the latest information can be found directly on the website.http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm In addition, airport security itself has been tightened. Travelers can expect to remove shoes and belt, empty pockets and be scanned prior to flight. Time must be allowed in any traveler's schedule for this process.

Many of the following items are prohibited at the time of this writing. A few are permitted with certain stipulations.This list is taken directly from the TSA websitehttp://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm.

• Sharp Objects
• Sporting Goods
• Guns and Firearms
• Tools
• Martial Arts and Self Defense Items
• Explosive and Flammable Materials, Disabling Chemicals and Other Dangerous Items
• Gel-type candles
• Gel shoe inserts
• Non-flammable liquid, gel, or aerosol paint over 3.4 ounces
• Flammable liquid, gel or aerosol paint
• Snow globes and similar decorations