New TSA Rules Allowing Knives and Clubs Are Freaking Out Flight Attendants

There will soon be new seating sections on domestic airlines. In front of the reinforced cockpit door will be the "safe zone." Behind that passengers will have a medieval free-for-all featuring hand-to-hand combat with (tiny) knives and (golf) clubs — at least, that's what the flight attendants are saying today.

Transportation Security Administration head John Pistole announced that, in about six weeks, you will once again be able to bring your favorite two-inch knife and/or hockey stick with you on a plane. (Your water bottle will still need to stay home.) The Los Angeles Times' Hugo Martin reports:

For the first time since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, federal airport screeners will allow passengers to carry onto a plane small knives, as well as golf clubs, hockey sticks and pool cues.

The policy change, which will take effect April 25, was immediately criticized by flight attendants, who say the move will create an unnecessary risk and further crowd the already limited space in the overhead bins.