TSA scrutinizes insulated drink cups www.privateofficer.com

CHARLOTTE, N.C.Dec 25 2010 -- If you are planning to bring your own beverage in an insulated drink container onto your next flight, be prepared for the TSA to take a close look at it.

Homeland Security is alerting airlines about a possible terrorist plot involving the drink containers. The TSA is concerned that explosives could be hidden inside one.

There is no specific threat and the containers will still be permitted on board, but if you carry one, it could mean you will be held up for a more thorough screening at security checkpoints.

At Charlotte-Douglas International, most passengers on Christmas Eve had not heard about the new security alert and most, when told about it, took it in stride.

"I travel a lot and I just pray the guys behind the security desks are doing what they need to do," said Delane Lester who was hurrying to catch a flight."

Charlotte-Douglas was full of travelers who were mostly concerned about getting to where they wanted to go for the holiday.

When asked why he would choose to fly on one of the biggest travel days of the year, Jesse Birnstihl said, "I was able to get a good flight and it worked with my schedule."

Airline passengers are paying about 7 percent more for tickets this year than last year. But Christmas Eve and Christmas day are times when some bargains can be found.